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WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


OR, 


EEMINiSCENCES  OF  31RS.  BIARGARET  PRIOR. 


"Lovely  was  the  death  of  her  whose  life  was  love." 

"  They  that  be  wise,  shall  shine  as  the  brightness  of  the  firma- 
ment, and  they  that  turn  many  to  rii^hteousness,  as  the  stars  for 
ever  and  ever." — Dan.  xii.  3. 


FIF  TH  EDITION. 

NEW  YORK: 
PUBLISHED  BY  THE  AM.  F.  M.  R.  SOCIETY, 

BRICK  CHURCH  CHAPEL,  36  PARK  ROW. 


1844. 


Entered,  according  to  Act  of  Congress,  in  the  year  1843, 
By  Mrs.  Sarah  R.  Ingraham. 
in  the  Clerk's  Office  of  the  District  Court  of  tlie  United  States, 
for  the  Southern  District  of  New  York". 


BTEREOTYFED  BY  REDFIELD  AND  SAVAGE, 
13  CHAMDEas  STREET,  N.  Y. 


TO  THE 


AMERICAN  FEMALE  MORAL  REFORM  SOCIETY. 
Ladies — 

A  special  request  from  several  of  your  num- 
ber has  encouraged  me  to  compile  this  little  vol- 
ume, and  I  consider  it  my  duty  to  the  deceased, 
to  dedicate  it  to  the  society  in  whose  service  the 
last  few  years  of  her  valuable  life  were  spent.  I 
am  aware  that  your  object  in  desiring  its  publica- 
tion, is  simply  that  it  may  do  good ;  and  if  this 
object  shall  be  gained,  the  labor  bestowed  in  pre- 
paring it  will  be  abundantly  rewarded.  Whatever 
avails  shall  arise  from  its  sale,  you  will  please 
devote  sacredly  to  the  cause  of  benevolence. 
Your  friend  and  fellow-laborer, 

S.  R.  Ingraham. 


PREFACE. 


The  following  pages  embrace  a  brief  sketch 
of  the  character  and  labors  of  a  mother  in  Israel, 
whose  Christian  course  was  a  standing  testimony 
of  the  power  of  faith.  Her  example  is  commend- 
ed to  the  careful  attention  of  the  reader,  with  the 
ardent  desire  that  it  may  be  followed,  as  she  fol- 
lowed Christ.  This  devoted  woman  moved  but 
in  the  common  walks  of  life,  and  possessed  no 
extraordinary  facilities  for  doing  good,  beyond  the 
reach  of  most  Christians  whose  hearts  are  set 
upon  similar  objects.  She  had  received  only  a 
plain  education  in  her  youth,  but  was  a  close  ob- 
server of  men  and  things  ;  possessed  an  unfailing 
fund  of  good  sense,  a  deep  knowledge  of  human 
nature  and  the  depravity  of  the  unsanctified  heart, 
and  a  rich  Christian  experience.  The  peculiar 
trait  in  her  religious  character  was,  simple  faith 
in  the  word  of  God.  Wherever  she  could  find  a 
**  Thus  saith  the  Lord,"  her  soul  anchored  upon  it, 
and  rested  as  a  child  upon  the  arm  of  its  parent. 
She  believed  God.  In  that  belief  she  found  all 
lier  wants  more  than  supplied.  Religion  was  her 
life.  Her  soul  was  habitually  filled  with  peace 
and  love,  and  often  uttered  praises,  exalting  and 
1* 


6 


PREFACE. 


magnifying  the  name  of  the  Lord ;  yet  she  ever 
felt  that  she  had  no  fund  in  store  for  future  use, 
but  must  "  live  hy  the  moment^''  "  looking  to  Je- 
sus." This  was  the  secret  of  her  extraordinary 
usefulness.  During  the  last  five  years  of  her  life 
she  was  supposed  to  have  been  instrumental  in 
the  conversion  of  more  than  one  hundred  souls. 
An  accurate  account  of  all  her  deeds  of  charity, 
would  probably  more  than  fill  a  folio  volume.  A 
few  only  among  the  many  are  here  briefly  narra- 
ted. In  collecting  the  following  statistics,  so 
much  more  offered,  that  the  question,  how  much 
shall  be  inserted  and  how  much  omitted?  has 
been  a  source  of  some  solicitude.  Particularly 
was  this  the  case  in  relation  to  the  journal  kept 
between  the  years  1837  and  1842.  A  large  por- 
tion of  this  is  omitted,  not  because  it  lacked  in- 
terest, but  to  avoid  swelling  the  volume  to  a  larger 
size  than  was  at  first  intended.  We  are  aware 
that  the  "  Letters  from  friends"  contani  testimony 
somewhat  similar  in  kind,  and  that,  to  the  eye  of 
the  critic,  there  may  be  a  seeming  impropriety  in 
devoting  so  much  space  to  this  portion  of  the  me- 
moir. It  will  be  found,  however,  that  each  writer 
has  stated  some  things,  not  named  by  others,  suf- 
ficient to  form  an  agreeable  variety;  and  that, 
as  a  whole — like  the  records  in  the  gospels — they 
tend  to  corroborate  the  general  statements  through 
out  the  work. 


CONTENTS. 


CHAPTER  I. 

Early  life.— Marriage —Death  of  children.— Death  of  hus- 
band.— Profession  of  religion. — Removal  to  New- York 
— Second  marriage.— Conversion. — Religious  experi- 
ence.— Benevolent  efforts  to  aid  the  poor  during  I8lb-'19.  11 


CHAPTER  II. 

Domestic  character. — Instances  of  self-denial. — Residence 
at  Bowery  Hill. — WrJks  of  usefulness. — Organizes  and 
sustains  a  school  for  poor  children. — Mind  exercised  in 
behalf  of  destitute  orphans. — Adopts  a  sick  infant  from 
the  Orphan  Asylum. — Consequent  trials. — Early  conver- 
sion and  death  of  the  child. — Adopts  another  motherless 
infant.  •      .  18 


CHAPTER  III. 

Testimony  of  her  class-leader. — Incidents  related  by  Hen- 
ry . — Method  adopted  in  convincing  him  of  sin. — La- 
bors for  an  impenitent  family,  all  of  whom  were  subse- 
quently converted. — Interest  in  the  Temperance  cause. 
— Trial  because  members  of  the  church  dealt  in  alco- 
hol.— Leaves  her  class  for  some  months. — Conflict  with 
temptations. — Rich  experience.         ....  28 


CHAPTER  IV. 

Death  of  Mr.  Prior. — Bereavement  deeply  felt.— Change 
of  circumstances.— Origin  of  the  question,  Can  not 
something  be  done  to  stay  the  tide  of  vice  in  our  city?" 
— Believing  prayer. — Knowledge  of  the  condition  and 
wants  of  the  young. — Beginning  and  end  of  the  career 
of  vice. — Organization  of  the  A.  F.  M.  R.  Society. — Be- 
comes one  of  its  board  of  managers. — Motive. — Sym- 
pathy for  the  wretched. — Interest  in  relation  to  the 
half  orphan  asylum. — Employed  by  the  A.  F.  M.  R. 
Society  as  a  city  missionary  36 


8 


CONTENTS. 


CHAPTER  V. 

Letters— from  Mrs.  M.  A.  Hawkins.— Mrs.  P.  Hunt. — 
Mrs.  R.  Beatty. — Anonymous.— Mrs.  M.  Dye. — Mrs. 

M.  I.  Hubbard.— Mrs.  J.  A.  D.  .—Mrs.  P.  McDowall. 

— Miss  Julia  A.  Reed.— Mrs.  S.  T.  Martyn.       .      .  45 

CHAPTER  VI. 

Case  of  a  dying  wife  who  had  sold  her  soul. — Two  young 
women  saved  from  suicide. — Interview  with  a  family  of 
Jews. — Deserted  wife. — Admonitions  in  a  quilting  room. 
— Hopeful  convertion  of  a  young  lady. — Conversion  of 
a  Catholic. — The  end  of  an  actress. — Conversion  of  an 
aged  sinner. — A  rich  poor  disciple. — Life  threatened. — 
Poor  family  relieved.— De])lorable  case  of  intemperance. 
— Happy  death.— The  dying  infidel.— Wife  of  Lawyer 

F  . — ni-gotten  gain.— Providential  incident. — Suffer. 

ings  of  the  poor  relieved  87 

CHAPTER  VII. 

General  results  of  personal  effort. — Specific  cases. — Inter- 
view with  a  Romanist. — Farther  particulars  with  re- 
gard to  Lawyer  F  .—Painful  case  of  illness  ia  a  dis- 

reputable  house. — Backs-lider  reclaimed. — The  aged 
blind  woman. — Lunatic  restored. — Doath  of  a  woman 
who  had  been  benefited  by  Mrs.  Prior's  labors. — Result 
of  Faimy  Wright's  lectures. — Conversion  of  a  wine  mer- 
chant.—A  daughter  hopefully  converted,  and  family 
awakened. — Affecting  history  and  death  of  an  orphan. 
— Alliance  of  vice  and  misery.— Rough  treatment. — 
Minister's  daughter  found  in  a  house  of  infamy. — Mrs. 
Prior  made  prisoner. — Visit  at  the  hou«;e  of  an  infidel. — 
Hopeful  conversion. — Young  man  from  home.         .  116 

CHAPTER  VIII. 

T>eath  of  Mr.  F. — Visit  at  asylum  for  aged  and  indigent 
females. — Parental  faithfulness  rewarded.— Wife  of  the 
infidel  converted. — Christ  rejected. — The  neglected  child. 
— Dying  faith.- Home  of  the  profligate. — Deserted  wife. 
— Orphan  sisters. — Visit  to  straw  factories. — Salvation 
of  an  orphan  through  means  of  the  Advocate. — Inter- 
view witn  a  convicted  sinner  150 


CONTENTS. 


9 


CHAPTER  IX. 

^ond  interview  with  Mrs.  — —.—Painful  case. — The 
Good  Samaritan. — Visit  at  Bellevue, — Conversation 
blessed  to  a  mother.— Encouraging  facts. — Case  of  a 
lost  daughter. — Another  do. — Interview  with  female 
atheists. — A  death-bed  scene — Visit  at  the  city  prison. 
— Good  effect  of  right  instruction. — Farther  account  of 
EUen  . — Case  of  conversion, — Family  assisted.  1#8 

CHAPTER  X. 

Conversion  of  a  mother  and  her  son. — A  scene  to  make 
the  heart  ache. — Strength  of  vicious  habits.— Efforts 
for  an  afflicted  family. — Guilt  betrayed. — Pniyer  meet- 
ing for  mothers.— A  ruined  daughter.— Second  interview 
with  the  family  of  an  infidel. — Sanctified  affliction. — En- 
■  treaties  of  a  child. — Pleasing  result, — Example  of 
Christian  fortitude. — Care  for  the  .stranger.      .       .  197 

CHAPTER  XI. 

Consequences  of  backsliding,  —  Child  saved.  —  Prison 
scenes.— Intemperate  families  visited. — Beggar  children 
getting  warm  in  the  sun. — Case  of  suicide. — Instances 
of  hopeful  conversion.— Influence  of  novel  reading. — 
Wayward  chDd.— Affecting  case. — Sick  youth.       .  215 

CHAPTER  XII. 

Visit  at  Sing  Sing  prison. — Inhuman  father, — Colored  or« 
phan  asylum. — An  honest  hour. — Visit  in  the  country,— 
interview  with  a  French  lady. — Inebriate  reclaimed. — 
xvepentance  delayed.— Family  of  Canadians. — Death 
without  hope. — The  Sunday  scholar  who  loved  liis  bible. 
— The  aged  saint  who  abode  on  Pisgah. — 'The  sick-boy 
and  his  little  friend. — Conversion  of  Mrs.  R. — The 
German  Sabbath  school — The  coffin  warehouse. — Faith- 
fulness rewarded  237 

CHAPTER  XIII. 

"Sister's  kind  word." — Faith  exemplified. — Visit  at  the 
hospital. — The  living  lost. — Farther  allusion  to 
Sunday  scholar. — The  motlier  of  little  James. — Effects 
of  tight  lacing. — An  interesting  case, — The  state-prison 


10 


CONTENTS. 


convict. — The  poor  Mind  girl. — A  scene  in  prison. — 
Blasted  hopes. — A  sad  picture  reversed. — Pleasing  re- 
sult of  missionary  labor  on  Long  Island — The  infidel 
converted. — The  drunkard's  death-bed. — Temperance 
jubilee   .266 


CHAPTER  XIV. 

The  blind  made  to  see. — Happiness  found  in  religion.— 
Child  convicted,  and  taught  the  way  to  be  saved  by  the 
poor  blind  girl  whom  she  led  to  'church.— A  painful 
case. — The  aunt  who  took  no  mterest  in  moral  reform. 
— The  orphan  assisted.— The  aged  mother.— The  wid- 
ow's son  reclaimed.— Living  upon  the  will  of  the 
Lord.   •      .  289 


CHAPTER  XV. 

Remarks.— Shades  of  natural  character.— Anti-sectarian 
spirit.— Love  of  music— Favorite  hymn.— Manner  of 
rebuking  sin.— Effect  of  witnessing  scenes  of  sorrow 
and  guilt.— Last  day  of  active  personal  effort.— Special 
baptism  of  the  Spirit.— Illness.— Submission.— Gratitude 
for  mercies.— Views  of  heaven.— Interest  in  the  cause 
of  moral  purity.— Faithfulness  to  the  impenitent.— Prep- 
aration  to  depart.— Interview  with  a  fellow-laborcr.— 
Wishes  with  regard  to  her  funeral.— Last  conversation. 
—Death.— Singular  appearance  of  the  body.— Funeral 
deferred.— Services.— Concluding  remarks.— Lines  su''- 
gested  by  a  review  of  her  life.        ...  " 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS, 

OR 

REMINISCENCES  OF  MRS.  MARGARET  PRIOR. 


CHAPTER  I. 

Early  life.— Marriage. — Death  of  children. — Death  of  husband. 
— Profession  of  religion. — Removal  to  New- York. — Second 
marriage. — Conversion. — Religious  experience. — Benevolent 
efforts  to  aid  the  poor  during  1S18-'19. 

Mrs.  Margaret  Prior,  the  subject  of  this 
memoir,  was  born  in  the  year  1773,  in  Fredericks- 
burgh,  Virginia.  She  was  the  daughter  of  Mr. 
William  Barrett,  a  respectable  farmer  of  that 
place.  Both  her  parents  were  professors  of  reli- 
gion. Her  mother  was  removed  by  death  when 
she  was  but  a  child,  and  a  stepmother  supplied 
her  place.  She  was  taught  at  an  early  age  to  be 
industrious  and  frugal,  and  to  rely  upon  herself. 
Though  siu-roimded  by  the  blessings  of  home  and 
friends,  she  soon  learned  that  vicissitudes  are  the 
common  lot ;  and  therefore,  to  provide  against 
emergencies,  should  they  ever  come,  she  acquired 
a  trade,  by  which,  with  ordinary  health,  she  could 


12 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


obtain  an  independent  livelihood.  At  the  age  of 
sixteen  she  was  married  to  Mr.  William  Allen 
then  a  linen  merchant  of  Baltimore,  and  subse 
quently  commander  of  a  merchant  vessel.  She 
resided  in  Baltimore  several  years,  during  whicli 
time  she  became  the  mother  of  several  children 
all  of  whom,  with  one  exception,  died  in  their  in 
fancy.  When  her  only  surviving  child  was  about 
a  year  and  a  half  old,  her  husband's  vessel  was 
wrecked,  and  he  was  lost  at  sea.  These  repeated 
strokes  were  deeply  felt ;  but  no  record  is  left  of 
her  particular  state  of  mind  while  smarting  under 
such  sore  bereavements.  It  appears,  however,  that 
sometime  previous  to  Mr.  Allen's  death,  when  at 
the  age  of  twenty-seven,  her  mind  became  im- 
pressed with  the  importance  of  religion,  and  she 
was  led  to  make  a  public  profession,  by  uniting 
with  the  Baptist  church,  of  which  she  remained  a 
member  in  good  standing  for  several  years.  Short- 
ly after  the  death  of  Mr.  Allen,  she  removed  to 
New  York,  where  she  could  have  the  society  and 
counsel  of  an  elder  sister,  who  resided  in  the  city. 

In  the  year  1814,  some  six  years  after  the  death 
of  her  first  husband,  she  was  married  to  Mr.  Wil- 
liam Prior,  a  gentleman  connected  with  the  soci- 
ety of  Friends,  and  somewhat  distinguished  foi 
his  benevolence  and  public  spirit.  She  was  again 
happily  united  to  one  who  had  secured  her  best 
affections ;  and  notwithstanding  her  heart  had  often 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


13 


been  made  desolate,  yet  as  the  sacred  endear- 
ments of  domestic  life  again  smiled  around  her, 
she  found  herself  ready  to  cling  with  renewed  ar- 
dor to  these  lent  blessings.  Her  disposition  was 
naturally  sprightly,  amiable,  and  affectionate  ;  con- 
sequently she  found  a  high  degree  of  enjoyment 
in  all  the  social  relations.  During  the  latter  part 
of  the  year  1815,  she  began  to  apprehend  that 
there  was  something  in  the  religion  of  the  gospel 
with  which  she  was  yet  unacquainted.  She  had 
long  been  connected  with  the  visible  church,  and 
her  theory  had  been  in  the  main  correct ;  but  her 
heart  had  not  felt  the  power  of  saving  faith.  The 
Bible,  instead  of  being  read,  and  studied,  and  be- 
lieved, as  w-e  read  the  communications  of  a  friend 
and  benefactor,  had  been  read  as  a  mere  matter 
of  duty ;  while  the  idea  of  communion  with  God, 
through  the  daily  and  prayerful  study  of  his 
word,  and  the  teachings  of  his  Spirit,  had  no 
place  in  her  darkened  mind.  She  was  conscious 
of  a  degree  of  conformity  to  the  world,  and  espe- 
cially of  a  love  of  dress,  incompatible  with  her 
theory  of  Christian  practice.  At  length  she  came 
to  the  conclusion  that  religion  was  all,  or  it  was 
nothing,  and  that  thus  far  she  had  been  self-de- 
ceived— had  worn  a  mere  garb  of  profession,  that 
would  be  of  little  worth  when  her  soul  should  stand 
undressed  before  its  Maker.  While  in  this  state 
of  mind,  an  invitation  was  !?ivcn  her  to  attend  a 


14 


WALKS  OF  US  I- FULNESS. 


Methodist  church,  that  was  separated  from  her 
residence  only  by  an  adjoining  yard.  Having  im- 
bibed strong  prejudices  against  the  Methodists,  the 
request  was  refused  ;  but  her  own  church  being  at 
some  distance,  she  was  induced  one  sabbath  morn- 
ing to  select  a  place  beneath  a  shade-tree,  in  her 
yard,  where  she  could  hear  unperceived.  During 
the  service  the  truth  came  home  with  new  power, 
and  made  an  impression  that  led  her  to  feel  that 
she  must  hear  it  there  again  ;  and  the  next  time 
she  was  induced  to  go  within  the  door,  a.nd  re- 
main, a  most  attentive  hearer.  It  was  not  long 
before  she  placed  herself,  in  deep  anguish  of  spir- 
it, at  the  altar,  among  those  who  were  inquiring 
what  they  should  do  to  be  saved.  Her  gay  attire 
contrasted  so  strongly  with  the  plainness  and  sim- 
plicity around  her,  that  she  attracted  special  no- 
tice— and  her  exercises  of  mind  soon  awakened 
a  deep  interest  in  her  case.  Her  eye  was  directed 
to  the  Cross  ;  she  beheld  the  Lamb  of  God  who 
taketh  away  the  sin  of  the  world  as  slain  for  her, 
as  having  loved  and  given  himself  for  her ;  and 
the  view  was  so  clear,  that  it  filled  her  soul  with 
peace,  and  she  went  her  way  rejoicing.  From 
this  time  onward  it  may  be  truly  said,  her  path 
became  "  as  the  shining  light,  shining  more  and 
more,  unto  the  perfect  day." 

Her  conflicts  with  temptation  were  frequent  and 
often  protracted ;  but  she  was  habitually  enabled 


WALKS  OF  USKFULNESS. 


15 


to  exclaim  in  the  result,  "  Thanks  be  unto  God 
who  giveth  us  the  victory  through  our  Lord  Jesus 
Christ."  Whenever  a  question  of  duty  seemed 
doubtful,  even  in  little  things,  her  mind  was  deep- 
ly exercised,  and  she  could  not  rest  till  she  felt 
that  the  will  of  the  Lord  was  clear.  The  study 
of  the  Bible  became  a  source  of  such  enjoyment 
that  it  was,  literally,  more  than  her  meat  and 
drink.  For  more  than  a  year  it  was  her  con- 
stant practice  to  read  it  upon  her  knees,  in  her 
closet,  many  times  a  day  and  often  at  night,  some- 
times getting  up  after  all  in  her  house  were  fast 
asleep,  and  stealing  away  where  she  could  be 
alone  with  her  Bible  and  her  God.  Often  on  such 
occasions,  while  "  in  prayer  her  soul  drew  near 
the  Lord,"  her  lips  were  tuned  to  praise,  and  she 
could  adopt  the  language  of  the  poet — 

"  The  more  Ihy  glories  strike  my  sight, 
The  lower  still  I  Ue  ; 
Thus  while  I  sink  my  joys  arise, 
Immeasurably  high." 

Religion  was  now  found  to  be  a  glorious  reality, 
making  her  happy  in  God,  "  all  the  day  long." 
Her  views  of  her  own  great  imworthiness  and  en- 
tire dependance,  and  of  the  nature  and  desert  of 
sin,  were  such  as  are  often  imparted  to  the  be- 
liever when  Jesus  is  revealed  to  the  soul,  through 
the  Word  and  the  Spirit ;  and  she  soon  attained 
such  habitual  deadness  to  the  world,  heavenly- 
mindedness,  and  entire  consecration  to  the  service 


16 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


of  Christ,  that  she  was  eminently  prepared  to  be 
a  living  witness  of  the  power  of  faith.  Dnring 
the  year  1819  she  united  with  the  Methodist 
Episcopal  Church,  and  remained  a  beloved  mem- 
ber of  that  communion  till  her  death.  The  reasons 
ihe  gave  for  uniting  with  this  people  were,  that 
hero  appeared  to  be  more  Christian  simplicity, 
-md  a  vicher  daily  experience  of  the  love  of  Christ 
among  its  members,  at  that  time,  than  elsewhere. 

From  this  date  onward,  Mrs.  Prior  was  ever  ac- 
tively engaged  in  the  cause  of  benevolence.  Soon 
after  the  New  York  Orphan  Asylum  was  instituted 
she  became  one  of  its  board  of  managers,  was 
also  a  stated  visiter  at  the  house  of  refuge  ;  and 
many  of  the  inmates  of  both  these  institutions 
will,  doubtlesc-,  remember  her  faithful  counsel  and 
earnest  prayers  both  in  this  world  and  another. 
She  was  in  the  habit  of  visiting  the  asylum  on  the 
holydays,  and  distributing  baskets  of  presents  to 
the  children.  She  said  they  were  deprived  of 
their  parents,  and  had  no  friends  to  bestow  the 
little  gifts  that  other  children  expect  on  such  oc- 
casions ;  and  the  privilege  of  conferring  such  fa- 
vors was  a  source  of  quite  as  much  enjoyment  to 
her  as  to  them. 

During  the  winter  of  1818  and  '19,  the  weather 
was  uncommonly  severe,  and  no  public  fund  was 
provided  in  the  city  for  supplying  the  necessities 
of  the  poor.    She  had  visited  much  among  the 


WALKS   OF   USEFULNESS.  17 

destitute  of  the  ninth  ward,  and  in  order  to  extend 
some  relief  to  them,  she  made  an  arrangement 
with  a  benevolent  lady  who  lived  next  door  to  her 
residence,  to  prepare  soup  three  times  a  week, 
and  gave  notice  that  they  might  come  for  it  at 
stated  times.  All  who  applied  were  visited  per- 
sonally, and,  if  found  deserving,  received  tickets 
permitting  them  to  come  again.  The  necessary 
ingredients  were  given  by  Mr.  Prior  and  others 
who  favored  the  object ;  no  pains  were  spared 
to  make  it  a  palatable  beverage,  and  during  the 
two  winters  over  seven  hundred  gallons  were 
distributed  among  the  sick  and  suffering ;  and 
many  were  probably  thus  kept  from  actual  starva- 
tion. These,  and  similar  deeds  of  mercy,  tend- 
ed to  enlarge  her  heart ;  while  she  watered  others 
she  was  watered  also  herself,  and  felt  continually 
the  truth  of  the  assertion,  "  It  is  more  blessed  to 
give  than  to  receive." 

2* 


18 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


CHAPTER  II. 

Domestic  character.— Instances  of  self-denial.— Residence  at 
Bowery  Hill.— Walks  of  usefulness.— Organizes  and  sustains 
a  schoolforpoor  children.— Mind  exercised  in  behalf  of  des- 
titute  orphans.- Adopted  a  sick  infant  from  the  Orphan  Asy- 
lum.— Consequent  trials.— Early  conversion  and  death  of  the 
child. — Adopts  another  motherless  infant. 

Departed  Saint  !  how  lovely  was  thy  life  1 

How  fine  the  symmetry  that  sweetly  graced 

Thy  character  in  every  varied  shade. 

Thou  hadst  a  woman's  heart— a  woman's  love, 

In  woman's  best  estate— redeemed  by  grace. 

A  mother's  pity  for  those  not  thy  own 

Waked  tender  >:hords-  chords  ever  timed  to  love 

Such  friends  as  thou,  the  poor  too  often  find 

•  Like  angels'  visits,  few  and  far  between.' 

Lest  the  reader  should  suppose,  from  the  past 
or  subsequent  chapters,  that  the  beloved  su1)ject 
of  this  memoir  was  led  by  her  interest  for  others 
to  neglect  the  duties  of  home,  it  may  be  proper  to 
state,  that  the  united  testimony  of  her  family,  and 
of  all  who  knew  her,  would  prove  the  reverse  of 
this.  She  was  remarkably  devoted  to  her  hus- 
band— regarded  his  comfort  and  his  temporal  in- 
terests with  unremitting  care ;  and  few  know  or 
practise  better  "  the  art  of  making  home  happy,'* 
or  more  highly  appreciate  duty  in  this  respect, 
than  did  this  humble,  self-denying  Christian.  Often 
have  we  heard  her  remark,  when  speaking  of  the 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


19 


indiscretion  and  remissness  of  many  who  sustain 
the  responsible  relation  of  "  wife,"  "  A  wise  wo- 
man buildeth  up  her  house,  but  a  foolish  one 
pulleth  it  down."  She  possessed  a  singular  com- 
prehensiveness of  mind,  a  judgment  and  practical 
wisdom  of  the  highest  order,  and  a  remarkable 
quickness  and  delicacy  of  feeling,  that  led  her  to 
discern  the  right  almost  intuitively  ;  and  her  ex- 
ample in  all  the  domestic  relations  was  ever  in 
accordance  with  her  perceptions  of  right.  She 
was  an  early  riser.  In  her  household  arrange- 
ments, the  rule  was  strictly  observed,  "  A  place 
for  everything,  and  everything  in  its  place."  No 
visiter  at  her  house  ever  saw  anything  like  confu- 
sion, or  want  of  neatness,  in  drawers,  closets,  or 
wardrobe.  System  and  order  were  also  manifest 
in  all  the  daily  routine  that  came  under  her  direc- 
tion. 

She  kept  an  account  of  whatever  was  brought  in, 
and  graduated  her  family  expenses  on  a  scale  of 
economy  that  enabled  her  daily  to  save  something 
for  the  poor.  As  an  instance  of  this, — her  husband 
allowed  a  dollar  per  week,  to  hire  assistance  in 
washing.  If  at  any  time  she  fell  short  of  the 
amount  she  wished  to  give  to  a  special  object,  in- 
stead of  hiring  aid,  she  would  go  into  the  wash- 
room herself,  and  with  the  help  of  the  domestic, 
have  everything  done  and  put  away  before  her 
husbJ-nd  returned  from  his  store  at  evening,  give 


20 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


her  dollar  to  the  charitable  purpose,  and  he  know 
not  that  she  had  even  wet  her  hands.  It  may  be 
said,  perhaps,  there  was  no  necessity  for  this,  as 
Mr.  Prior  was  benevolent,  and  ever  ready  to  aid 
her  charitable  projects.  True,  it  was  not  needful; 
but  then  this  was  her  way  of  doing  the  thing,  and 
she  felt  that  the  personal  effort  was  made  a  bles- 
sing to  herself,  of  greater  value  than  the  sum  saved 
by  it. 

During  most  of  the  time  intervening  between 
1819  and  1828  her  residence  was  on  Bowery  hill, 
in  the  upper  part  of  the  city.  As  this  was  a  period 
of  more  than  ordinary  interest  in  the  history  of 
her  eventful  life,  it  may  gratify  the  reader  to  be 
introduced  to  her  little  domicil,  that  he  may  give 
"  a  local  habitation  and  a  name"  to  the  spot  of 
earth  where  this  beloved  disciple  for  a  time 

"  Held  converse  with  the  skies, 
And  filled  her  urn  where  those  pure  waters  rise." 

The  site  of  ground  embracing  her  residence  was 
on  a  small  elevation,  overlooking  a  portion  of  the 
city,  and  the  two  beautiful  rivers  by  which  it  is 
bounded  on  either  side.  Her  house  was  large 
and  commodious,  surrounded  by  a  pleasant  yard 
and  wide  garden,  filled  with  a  choice  collection 
of  flowers  and  shrubbery,  and  environed  with  fruit 
and  shade  trees.  A  row  of  poplars  and  horse- 
chestnut  overshadowed  the  walk  that  led  from  the 
yard  to  the  street ;  and  thus,  though  in  the  midst 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


21 


of  a  great  city,  she  was  not  shut  out  from  the  beau 
ties  of  nature  on  a  small  scale,  and  her  love  of 
the  works  of  God  was  so  ardent,  that  her  heart 
frequently  overflowed  with  gratitude  for  what  her 

eyes  beheld.    Mrs.  M  ,  a  beloved  Christian 

sister,  with  whom  she  often  took  sweet  counsel, 
and  walked,  or  rode,  to  the  house  of  God  in  com- 
pany, occupied  a  similar  situation,  a  few  rods  from 
her  dwelling  ;  and  to  her  we  are  indebted  for  most 
of  the  statements  contained  in  this  chapter.  Mrs. 

M  asserts,  that  in  her  visits  of  mercy  during 

these  years,  they  walked  together  at  least  one 
hundred  miles ;  that  among  those  visited,  Mrs.  P. 
would  select  individuals,  and  sometimes  destitute 
mothers  and  children,  and  support  them  in  some 
cases  for  months  together,  till  they  were  placed 
in  a  situation  to  sustain  themselves. 

In  1822,  after  visiting  in  the  neighborhood  around 
her,  and  learning  its  moral  wants,  she  established  a 
school  for  the  children  of  the  poor,  hired  a  teacher, 
and  visited  it  weekly  for  conversation  and  prayer.* 
In  order  that  tiiis  laudable  enterprise  might  be  con- 
tinued, several  Christian  friends  to  whom  she  ap- 
plied, contributed  pecuniary  aid  from  time  to  time. 

After  the  death  of  her  seventh  child,  her  mind 
was  much  exercised  about  becoming  a  mother  to 
the  motherless.  She  carried  the  matter  once  and 
again  to  the  mercy-seat,  and  at  length  resolved, 

*  Mrs.  Prior  contributed  personally  $100  per  annum  to  sm* 
tnin  this  school. 


22 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


with  her  husband's  consent,  to  adopt  an  orphan 
child  that  they  cou^d  love  and  cherish  as  their  own. 
After  some  consultation  the  arrangement  was  made 
to  select  such  a  child  from  the  orphan  asylum. 
Mrs.  Prior  accordingly  went  to  the  institution  and 
communicated  her  intention.  She  passed  from 
room  to  room,  observing  some  with  whose  looks 
she  was  pleased,  but  fixing  upon  none.  As  she 
entered  the  nursery,  the  first  object  that  attracted 
her  attention  was  a  little  infant  lying  in  its  nurse's 
arms,  wan  and  wasted  with  sickness.  It  moaned 
piteously  as  she  approached  it,  and  reached  its 
tiny  arms  toward  her  as  if  it  would  have  said,  "  Do 
take  me."  The  suggestion  at  once  came  to  her 
mind,  "  There's  no  charity  in  taking  a  healthy,  pret- 
ty  child,  but  there  would  be  in  taking  a  sick  one." 
She  said  had  an  audible  voice  from  Heaven  whis- 
pered this  in  her  ear,  she  would  not  have  felt 
more  strongly  impressed  that  if  an  act  of  charity 
was  designed,  duty  called  her  to  choose  this  child 
in  preference  to  any  other.  It  was  but  a  few 
months  old,  by  some  accident  had  received  a  se- 
vere injury  of  the  spine,  and  had  been  sick  almost 
from  its  birth.  She  learned  that  its  motlier  was  a 
Christian,  and  with  her  dying  breath  had  resigned 
it  to  the  keeping  of  her  covenant  God — apparently 
in  the  strongest  exercise  of  faith.  Mrs.  Prior 
was  troubled  in  spirit,  for  she  had  sought  counsel 
of  the  Lord  in  this  mattter,  and  now  felt  that  his 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


will  was  manifest — but  she  was  not  ready  for  the 
sacrifice.  She  went  home  in  silence  with  a  load 
at  her  heart,  purposing  to  state  the  case  to  her 
husband,  and  thinking  if  he  objected,  as  she  ex- 
pected he  would,  it  might  relieve  her  from  further 
sense  of  responsibility.  Mr.  Prior  listened  patient- 
ly to  the  matter,  but  gave  no  decided  opinion  for 
more  than  a  week.  During  this  time  her  exercise 
of  mind  was  such,  that  she  was  made  fully  wil- 
ling to  encounter  any  self-denial  required,  in  case 
her  husband  gave  his  free  consent.  She  had 
made  a  renewed  consecration  of  all  her  powers  to 
her  blessed  Master,  for  any  service  he  might  ap- 
point ;  and  his  love  had  been  again  revealed  to  her 
as  an  ocean  without  bottom  or  shore.  She  felt 
that  the  wide  arm  of  mercy  was  spread  out,  en- 
folding a  world  in  its  embrace,  and  that  her  high- 
est honor  and  happiness  would  be,  to  have  her 
will  and  affections  sweetly  mingling  and  com- 
mingling in  this  ocean  of  love,  and  appropriated 
only  to  uses  of  benevolence — such  benevolence, 
in  kind,  as  moved  the  heart  of  the  Son  of  God, 
while  fulfilling  his  embassy  to  earth. 

One  sabbath  after  a  season  of  silent  meditation, 
Mr.  P.  came  in  and  said  to  her  very  pleasantly, 

Margaret,  thee  can  take  that  child,  if  thee 
pleases."  The  question  was  thus  settled,  and 
poor  Adeline — for  that  was  her  name — found 
foster  parents,  who,  as  far  as  possible,  supplied 


24 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


what  few  cliildren  who  have  once  lost  it  ever 
know — 

"  A  mother's  love,  —  a  father's  care." 

Owing  to  the  injury  alhided  to,  the  child  retain- 
ed the  helplessness  of  infancy  till  over  three 
years  old,  and  could  neither  sit  nor  stand.  It  was 
ascertained  that  her  back,  instead  of  being  badly 
injured  was  broken;  her  sufferings  were  often  in- 
tense, and  the  skill  of  physicians  failed  to  impart 
relief.  She  was  nursed  with  maternal  tenderness 
by  day  and  night,  but  the  labor  of  taking  care  of 
her  was  truly  arduous,  requiring  a  degree  of  forti- 
tude and  unwearied  patience,  that  even  parents 
are  seldom  called  to  exercise.  Mrs.  Prior  regard- 
ed this  as  a  special  dispensation  of  Providence 
for  the  trial  of  her  faith ;  and  it  proved  a  school 
in  which  she  was  taught  many  salutary  lessons. 
She  found  occasionally  that  there  was  still  muth 
in  her  naturally  high  and  independent  spirit  that 
needed  to  be  subdued  and  moulded,  so  that  in  all 
circumstances  it  might  be  patient  and  Christ-like. 
The  adversary  often  assailed  her  in  such  a  man- 
ner that  when  she  had  been  broken  of  her  rest  at 
night,  or  obliged  to  perform  repeated  tiresome 
offices  for  the  child  by  day,  she  was  so  strongly 
tempted  to  impatience,  that  the  perspiration  would 
stand  in  drops  upon  her  face,  while  her  heart  was 
lifted  in  ejaculatory  supplication  for  grace  to  help. 
When  thus  employed,  with  poor  Adeline  in  her 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


25 


anns,  she  would  frequently  repeat  aloud  the  words 
of  inspiration,  "  Let  patience  have  her  perfect 
work,  that  ye  may  be  perfect  and  entire,  wanting 
nothing ;"  and,  to  her  surprise,  the  first  words  her 
little  charge  attempted  to  utter,  were  lisped  in 
broken  accents — "  Et  patence  hab  it  perfet  wut, 
at  'e  may  pe  perfet  an  tire,  wan  tin  notin." 

When  the  little  sufferer  was  between  three  and 
four  years  old,  as  Mrs.  Prior  sat  ruminating  one 
day  upon  the  care  and  toil  that  had  been  so  long 
bestowed  upon  her,  and  the  inefhcacy  of  all  known 
means  of  relief,  her  mind  was  directed  to  the 
Great  Physician,  and  the  thought  suddenly  occurred 
to  her  that  a  kind  of  stay  might  be  prepared  that 
would  give  support  to  the  slender,  broken  body, 
and  perhaps  relieve  her.  She  immediately  went 
to  a  chest  of  linen,  tore  some  strong  cloth  into 
strips,  and  bandaged  the  chest  and  limbs.  From 
this  time  the  child  gained  strength  and  was  soon 
able  to  sit  alone,  and  afterward  to  stand  and  walk. 
Her  disposition  became  amiable,  docile,  and  very 
affectionate,  and  this,  with  her  peculiar  suffering, 
entwined  her  more  and  more  closely  around  the 
maternal  heart  that  had  endured  so  much  on  her 
behalf.  She  improved  rapidly,  and  soon  evinced 
an  understanding  of  religious  truth  remarkable 
for  one  of  her  years. 

When  between  ten  and  eleven  years  old,  it  was 
manifest  that  her  back  and  chest  were  growin^^ 


26 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


together  in  such  a  manner  that  life  could  not  long 
be  preserved.  For  sometime  previous  to  this  de- 
velopment, she  had  been  regarded  as  one  of  "  the 
lambs"  that  Jesus  had  "gathered  with  his  arm,'' 
and  folded  to  his  bosom  :  and  the  evidence  of  ear- 
ly piety  in  her  case  was  so  marked,  that  none  who 
knew  her  doubted  its  being  genuine.  She  met 
death  with  a  smile,  and  went  down  to  the  dark 
valley  rejoicing  in  her  Savior,  fully  expecting  soon 
to  sing  his  praises  among  that  company  of  little 
children,  whose  hosannas  mingle  in  the  music  of 
the  heavenly  choir. 

"  Short  pain,  short  grief,  frail  child,  were  thine  ; 
Now,  joys  eternal  and  divine." 

When  this  painfully  pleasing  scene  had  closed, 
Mrs.  Prior  was  led  to  rejoice  greatly  in  the  Lord, 
that  he  had  permitted  her  to  be  instrumental  in 
polishing  a  gem  to  sparkle  for  ever  in  her  Re- 
deemer's crown.  From  this  time  till  she  went  to 
join  her  in  glory,  she  seemed  to  cherish  the  im- 
pression, that  her  loved  Adeline  was  made  a  min- 
istering spirit  to  watch  around  her  path,  and  be- 
side her  bed,  and  that  sleeping  or  waking,  she 
was  often  near. 

Previous  to  Adeline's  death,  Mrs.  P.  had  adopt- 
ed another  infant,  whose  mother  had  died  when 
it  was  but  five  days  old.  Though  at  that  time  over 
fifty  years  of  age,  she  also  brought  up  this  child  by 
hand,  and  spared  no  pains  to  train  her  in  the  nur- 


"WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


27 


ture  and  admonition  of  the  Lord.  She  was  the 
occasion  of  much  solicitude  during  the  years  of 
childhood,  and  ever  the  subject  of  daily  prayer. 
This  child  survives  Mrs.  P.,  and  was  privileged 
to  watch  by  the  dying  bed,  and  perform  those  little 
offices  of  kindness  that  parents  so  much  prize,  till 
the  heart  that  loved  her  had  ceased  to  beat. 


28 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


CHAPTER  III. 

Testimony  of  her  class-leader. — Incidents  related  by  Henry 
— . — Jlethod  adopted  in  convincing  him  of  sin. — Labors  for 
an  impenitent  family,  all  of  whom  were  subsequently  con- 
verted.— Interest  in  the  Temperance  cause. — Trial  because 
members  of  the  church  dealt  in  alcohol. — Leaves  her  class 
for  some  months. — Conflict  with  temptations. — Rich  experi- 
ence. 

"  Sweet  is  the  tear  that  from  some  Howard's  eye 
Drops  on  the  cheek  of  one  he  lifts  from  earth." 

COLEBIDGE. 

Beside  the  two  children  alluded  to  in  the  last 
chapter,  Mrs.  Prior  took  several  of  different  ages, 
kept  them  for  a  time,  and  taught  them  correct 
habits,  and  obedience  to  the  commands  of  God. 
Her  attachment  to  children  was  peculiarly  strong ; 
and  as  love  begets  love,  she  ever  found  her  affec- 
tion reciprocated  by  the  wide  circle  of  youth 
among  whom  she  had  the  happiness  to  move. 

Mr.  F  ,  an  aged  father,  who  was  for  eight 

years  her  class-leader,  recently  communicated  the 
following :  When  the  people  were  collecting  to 
attend  her  funeral,  previous  to  the  service,  a  man 
accosted  him  who  used  to  live  Avith  her  when  a 

boy.    Mr.  F  did  not  at  first  recognise  him  ; 

but  as  he  inquired,  "Don't  you  remember  Henry  ?" 
the  associations  of  other  years  were  at  once  ic- 


"WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


29 


called.  They  conversed  a  few  moments  in  refer- 
ence to  her  many  acts  of  benevolence,  when  the 
man  remarked  with  some  emotion,  "  No  one  can 
know  more  of  that  than  I  do.  I  have  many  a 
time  carried  as  much  provision  as  I  could  lift,  and 
distributed  by  her  direction  to  one  poor  family  and 
anoiher ;  and  sometimes  when  my  arms  were  too 
full  she  would  help  me."  The  immortal  Coleridge 
has  beautifully  said : 

"He  that  works  me  good  Nvith  unmoved  fare, 
Does  it  but  half:  he  chills  me  while  he  aids 
My  Benefactor,  not  my  Brother  Man  !" 

Such  a  philanthropist  was  not  Mrs.  Prior.  While 
distributing  her  alms,  she  ever  sympathized  in  the 
sorrows  of  the  afllicted,  counselled  them  concerning 
temporal  matters,  as  one  who  had  a  mother's  heart, 
then  talked  to  them  about  the  soiil,  and  tenderly 
entreated  them  to  read  and  obey  the  word  of  God. 

Mr.   stated,  that  when  he  first  saw  her,  he 

was  a  poor  boy,  roaming  in  the  streets.  She  took 
him  into  her  house  and  kept  him  several  years. 
[Whether  he  felt  that  he  owed  to  her  his  present 
respectable  appearance  and  pleasant  settlement  in 
life,  he  did  not  say ;  but  it  is  not  improbable,  had 
the  inquiry  been  made,  that  his  testimony  would 
have  been  to  that  effect.]  He  remarked,  that  a 
small  circumstance  occurred  when  he  lived  with 
her,  that  always  made  him  feel  ashamed  when  he 
thought  of  it.  It  was  this.  Mrs.  Prior  had  gone 
3* 


30 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


out  for  the  afternoon,  and  left  him  alone  with  the 
domestic.  Being  disposed  to  play,  he  put  a  corn 
upon  a  fishhook,  and  threw  it  in  the  yard  to  a 
chicken.  The  chick  swallowed  the  bait,  hook  and 
all.  The  hook  caught  in  the  throat,  and  all  his 
efforts  to  extricate  it  proved  unavailing.  He  was 
greatly  troubled,  fearing  Mrs.  Prior  would  be 
highly  displeased  with  him,  and  so  he  cut  the  line 
from  the  hook  as  close  to  the  bill  as  possible,  and 
charged  the  girl  not  to  tell.  Mrs.  Prior  came 
home,  and  nothing  was  said  of  what  had  happened. 
The  poor  chick  drooped  two  or  three  days  and 
died.  The  hook  was  found  in  its  throat,  and  Hen- 
ry suspected  with  having  done  the  mischief  To 
screen  himself  from  blame  he  denied  it,  but  the 
servant  girl  betrayed  him  ;  and  as  he  refused  to 
confess  his  fault,  Mrs.  Prior  took  him  to  an  upper 
room  alone,  locked  the  door,  desired  him  to  kneel, 
and  knelt  beside  him,  and  then  told  the  Lord, 
weeping,  "  what  a  wicked  boy  he  had  been  in 
telling  a  lie,  and  persisting  in  it, — how  greatly  he 
had  sinned  against  him  by  so  doing  :  she  was 
sorry  he  had  killed  the  chicken  and  caused  it  to 
suffer,  but  that  was  a  trifle  compared  with  denying 
the  truth.'"  Thus  she  prayed  and  labored  with 
him  for  an  hour.  He  held  out  as  long  as  possible, 
but  at  length  her  tenderness  overcame  him, — he 
was  si^bdued,  and  confessed  the  whole — was 
greatly  humbled — and  an  impression  was  made  on 


WALKS   OF   USEFULNESS.  31 

his  mind  never  to  be  for^rottcn.  Mr.  F  states, 

that  while  in  his  class,  she  was  constantly  engaged 
in  carrying  out  some  benevolent  purpose.  At  one 
time  a  destitute  but  interesting  family  lived  near 
her,  who  were  all  impenitent.  The  father  had 
struggled  faithfully  and  long  to  rise  above  extreme 
want,  but  could  seldom  obtain  employment — was 
at  this  time  without  any,  and  truly  disheartened. 
Mrs.  Prior,  after  understanding  the  circumstances, 
hired  him  to  work  in  her  garden,  so  that  she  might 
have  an  opportunity  to  talk  to  him  daily  about  the 
subject  of  religion.  She  also  supplied  the  wants 
of  his  wife  and  four  children.  In  a  little  time  the 
man  was  hopefully  converted.  He  became  dan- 
gerously ill,  and  was  confined  for  several  weeks. 
During  his  sickness,  her  attentions  continued  un- 
remitting, and  the  confidence  and  gratitude  of  the 
family  were  so  fully  secured,  that  her  word  be 
came  as  an  oracle  among  them.  The  father  died 
in  faith,  testifying  of  his  love  to  Christ  with  his 
dying  breath.  The  mother  was  in  feeble  health, 
and  Mrs.  Prior  took  two  of  the  daughters  to  her 
home,  till  further  provision  could  be  made  for 
them,  obtained  assistance  for  the  others,  and  con- 
tinued her  efforts  in  their  behalf  till  the  whole 
family  gave  evidence  of  saving  conversion.  There 
are  several  living  witnesses  of  this  exhibition  of 

her  fidelity  to  the  law  of  love.    Mr.  F  states 

farther,  that  her  testimony  at  class-meeting  evinced 


32 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


deep  humility,  and  was  ever  calculated  to  "  abase 
self,  and  exalt  Christ."  She  would  often  remark, 
"  My  greatest  desire  is,  that  self  may  be  entirely 
crucified,  and  that  my  blessed  Jesus  may  be  all  in 
all."  Whatever  good  resulted  from  her  labors  she 
attributed  to  grace  alone  ;  and  when  led  to  speak 
of  it,  her  end  seemed  to  be,  to  praise  and  magnify 
the  name  of  the  Lord,  that  he  permitted  so  vile  a 
worm  to  do  anything  in  his  service. 

She  was  early  enlisted  in  the  temperance  cause, 
and  labored  untiringly  to  persuade  men,  women, 
and  children,  to  sign  the  pledge.  Several  individ- 
uals who  were  members  of  the  church  dealt  in 
alcohol.  This  exceedingly  distressed  her;  she 
expostulated  with  them  in  love  and  faithfulness, 
and  often  with  tears  ;  but  their  interest  was  con- 
cerned, and  they  would  not  be  persuaded  to 
abandon  the  guilty  traffic.  She  was  so  much  tried 
on  this  account  that  she  did  not  meet  with  hei 
class,  or  go  to  the  communion  table,  for  several 
months.  During  this  period  she  was  assailed  by 
many  and  fierce  temptations.  Plausible  arguments 
were  presented  to  her  mind  in  favor  of  regarding 
all  time  as  alike  holy,  and  of  serving  the  Lord  in 
her  own  way,  out  of  the  pale  of  the  visible  church. 
She  did  not  lose  her  hold  of  Christ,  or  in  any  way 
backslide  ;  but  she  had  a  sore  conflict  with  the 
powers  of  darkness.  She  once  remarked,  that  her 
experience  at  this  time  taught  her,  as  nothing  else 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


33 


could  have  done,  how  to  sympathize  with  others 
in  similar  trials. 

Previous  to  this  it  had  become  her  habitual 
practice  to  impute  all  moral  actions  to  the  influence 
of  either  a  good  or  bad  spirit  in  connexion  with 
human  agency.  Consequently  whatever  view  of 
truth  or  error  was  presented  it  was  prayerfully 
canvassed,  and  the  question  proposed,  "  Is  it  in 
accordance  with  the  word  of  God  ?"  "  Was  it  dic- 
tated by  the  Holy  Spirit  ?"  or,  "  Did  it  come  from 
the  father  of  lies  ?"  This  practice  was  continued  to 
the  end  of  life,  and  made  many  a  rough  way  smooth 
in  her  weary  pilgrimage.  The  sabbath  question 
was  soon  settled  by  an  appeal  to  "  the  law  and 
the  testimony  ;"  also  the  question  about  the  church. 
Her  design  in  staying  away  from  the  communion 
had  been  to  rebuke  the  sin  alluded  to ;  but  at  the 
end  of  ten  months  she  received  a  special  baptism 
of  the  Spirit,  and  her  heart  was  so  filled  with  love 
that  she  returned  to  her  class  meeting,  to  pour  out 
her  overflowing  emotions  in  testimony  of  what 
God  had  done  for  her  soul.  She  was  no  more 
disposed  to  justify  the  sale  of  ardent  spirits  than 
before,  but  had  come  to  the  conclusion  that  as  the 
sin  of  her  brethren  had  been  reproved  both  private- 
ly and  openly,  she  could  do  no  more  ;  the  com- 
munion table  was  not  theirs,  but  the  Lord's,  and  if 
they  dared  to  come  to  it  without  clean  hands  and 
pure  hearts,  they  alone  must  account  for  it,  and 


34 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


nothing  could  be  gained  by  her  continued  sacrifice 
of  the  privileges  she  so  much  prized. 

When  quite  young,  like  too  many  others,  she 
acquired  the  habit  of  using  snuff,  and  contin- 
ued it  for  many  years,  without  much  reflection 
upon  the  inconsistency  of  the  practice.  A  time 
came,  however,  when  she  was  led  to  feel  that  she 
must  resign  this  cherished  indulgence.  After  be- 
ginning to  labor  in  behalf  of  temperance,  an  in- 
dividual who  had  been  many  times  entreated  in 
vain  to  sign  the  pledge,  reminded  her  of  her  love 
of  snuff,  and  her  unwillingness  to  relinquish  it. 
She  saw  and  felt  the  force  of  the  reproof,  and  at 
once  took  the  matter  to  her  closet.  A  friend 
writes  who  once  heard  her  relate  this  circum- 
stance, "  She  said,  '  On  querying  with  the  unseen 
monitor  the  reason  of  the  sacrifice  that  seemed  to 
be  required  of  me,  the  answer  to  my  mind  was, 
"  I  will  have  thee  without  spot  or  blemish,"  my 
heart  responded,  "  Lord,  I  am  full  of  spots  and 
blemishes."'  And  the  touching  manner  in  which 
she  expressed  this,  and  the  internal  purity  so  evi- 
dent in  her  countenance,  I  can  never  forget." 

It  cost  a  severe  struggle,  but  after  the  conquest 
was  gained  she  realized  that  a  clog  had  been 
rolled  off — a  strong  chain  broken,  and  to  use  her 
own  words,  that  "  she  was  indeed  the  Lord's  free- 
woman."  She  returned  with  renewed  strength  to 
work  in  his  vineyard,  feeling  that  "  He  made  her 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


35 


feet  like  hinds'  feet,"  and  that  the  desire  of  her 
heart  would  be  given  her.  The  individual  above 
alluded  to  was  visited,  and  told,  with  tears  of 
gratitude,  that  the  Lord  had  enabled  her  to  over- 
come her  love  of  snuff,  that  she  had  given  it  up 
for  ever,  and  that  she  expected  he  would  now  sign 
the  temperance  pledge  and  never  break  it  more. 
He  could  not  resist  her  appeal,  but  was  constrain- 
ed to  put  his  name  to  the  pledge,  and  henceforth 
kept  it  inviolate. 

From  this  time  forward,  the  consciousness  that 
she  was  a  slave  to  no  wrong  habit,  was  a  source 
of  far  more  pleasure  than  can  ever  be  found  in  any 
sinful  indulgence.  Her  experience  in  this  respect 
was  blessed  to  many  others.  She  could  plead 
with  the  temperate  drinker  and  the  lover  of  tobac- 
co, as  one  who  knew  how  to  sympathize  from 
having  triumphed  over  a  similar  difficulty ;  and 
often  inspired  courage  and  resolution  where  an- 
other might  have  failed. 


36 


VALKS  OF  USEFULNESS 


CHAPTER  IV. 

Death  of  Mr.  Prior. — Bereavement  deeply  Iclt.— Change  ot 
circumstances.— Origin  of  the  question,  Can  not  something 
be  done  to  slay  the  tide  of  vice  in  our  city?" — Believing 
prayer. — Knowledge  of  the  condition  and  wants  of  the 
young. — Beginning  and  end  of  the  career  of  vice.— Organiza- 
tion of  the  A.  F.  M.  R.  Society. — Becomes  one  of  its  board 
of  managers. — Motive.— Sympathy  for  the  wretched.— in- 

'  tercst  in  relation  to  the  half  orphan  asylum. — Em])loy.ed  by 
the  A.  F.  M.  R.  Society  as  a  city  missionary. 

*'  Life  is  a  state  of  trial,  not  reward, 
Though  rough  the  passage,  blissful  is  tlic  pert." 

Skptember  14th,  1829,  Mrs.  Prior  \vas  agaia 
called  to  drink  deep  of  the  cup  of  sorrow.  Her 
kind  husband  who  had  been  so  long  her  counsel- 
lor and  best  earthly  stay,  was  summoned  to  the 
spirit-land.  God  had  changed  his  countenance, 
and  he  was  laid  away  in  the  narrow-house  ap- 
pointed for  all  the  living.  Her  home  and  her 
heart  were  made  desolate,  and  for  a  time  she  felt 
crushed  beneath  a  weight  of  grief;  nevertheless 
she  Avas  enabled  to  rejoice  in  God,  and  bow  with 
sweet  submission  to  his  will.  She  had  many 
times  looked  into  the  grave  and  seen  it  close  over 
the  cherished  objects  of  her  tenderest  affection — 
and  this  heavy  blow  seencd  to  open  ?-fresh  the 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS.  37 

wounds  that  time  had  but  partly  healed — and 
though  a  murmuring  word  or  thought  found  no 
place,  yet  her  remaining  ties  to  earth  were  so  few 
and  the  attractions  toward  heaven  so  strong,  that 
for  several  months  it  seemed  to  require  special 
grace  to  lead  her  to  enter  her  accustomed  walks 
of  usefulness  with  wonted  cheerfulness  and  zeal 
Her  pleasant  residence  on  Bowery  hill  was  ex- 
changed for  another  less  retired,  and  though  she 
never  wanted  for  the  comforts  that  pecuniary 
means  afford,  yet  she  felt  more  like  a  pilgrim  and 
stranger  on  the  earth  than  she  had  done  be- 
fore. The  weekly  meetings  for  prayer,  so  long 
sustained  at  her  house,  vrere  interrupted  by  her 
change  of  residence.  In  this  meeting  she  had, 
with  others,  often  enjoyed  seasons — 

*'  When  heart  met  heart  before  the  mercy-seat. 
And  converse  held  on  high  and  holy  themes, 
Till  earth  and  heaven  seemed  blent." 

The  little  band  who  had  been  gathered  there 
were  frequently  brought  so  nigh  the  Cross  by  the 
precious  blood  of  Jesus,  that  they  seemed  by  faith, 
to  touch  the  hem  of  his  garment,  and  they  had 
often  "  thought  God  heard  them"  and  that  their 
prayers  were  answered.  These  seasons  were 
now — 

"  Among  the  records  of  the  far  dark  past." 

The  flowers  and  shrubbery  that  her  han5  had 


38  WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 

twined  and  nurtured  with  so  much  care,  weie 
faded.  The  garden  and  walk,  and  all  the  premise^ 
Upon  the  liill,  were  swept  away,  in  order  to  biing. 
the  elevation  to  a  level  with  the  ground  around  it. 

"  Scenes  of  my  hope  !  the  aching  eye  ye  leave, 
Like  yoB  bright  lines  that  paint  the  clonds  at  eVe, 
Tearful  and  saddiening  with  the  saddened  blazo, 
Mine  eye  the  gleam  pursues  with  wistful  gaze, 
Sees  shades  on  shades,  witi-.  deeper  tfnt  impend. 
Till,  cliill  and  damp,  the  nioonleas  night  descend.'' 

It  was  on  this  hill,  and  in  that  praying  cin  h*. 

alluded  to  a,bove,  that  the  condition  of  "  the  Ictn' 

if 

train  of  deluded  ones'^  in  our  city,  first  moved  t  ho 
deep  fountains  of  Christian  sympathy,  and  iho  in- 
quiry originated,  "  Can  not  something  be  done 
All  was  dark  and  forbidding  to  human  view,  but 
these  sisters  felt  that  there  was  help  in  God  and 
efficacy  in  prayer.  Their  requests  were  inado 
known  to  him  with  the  consciousness  that  his  ear 
was  ever  open  to  their  cry,  and  when  in  his  pr(>vi- 
dence  one  was  raised  up  to  enter  this  untried  field, 
to  face  the  taunts  and  revilings  of  the  ungodly,  and 
pour  light  in  upon  this  moral  darkness — they  saw 
the  girdings  of  an  unseen  arm  about  the  youtlifid 
champion,  and  though  the  ground  he  scannej 
seemed  to  have  been  occupied  solely  by  the  priiiro 
of  darkness,  they  felt  that  it  was  to  be  so  no 
longer.  Mrs.  Prior  was  among  the  first  who  look 
this  brother  by  the  hand  andbadehimGod  sp<ied  in 
his  work  j  and  while  he  lived  her  closet  witnes soil 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


39 


the  fervency  of  her  daily  supplications  in  his  be- 
bilf. 

Her  personal  knowledge  of  the  condition  of 
many  of  the  youth  of  this  city,  their  depravity, 
a '.id  exposures  to  temptation,  made  her  heart  yearn 
over  them.  From  what  has  been  before  stated  it 
will  be  inferred  that  her  deep  interest  in  children 
and  youth,  led  her  to  regard  whatever  concerned 
their  well-being  with  maternal  solicitude.  Her 
connection  with  the  house  of  refuge,  where  she 
was  a  constant  visiter,  had  led  her  to  dwell  much 
ujion  the  causes  and  consequences  of  early  crime 
among  the  class  who  were  gathered  there.  Here 
phe  saw  the  result  of  its  beginnings^  in  the  hospi- 
tal and  penitentiary — another  department  of  her 
frequent  labors — she  saw  its  end.  Among  the 
Jnmdreds  who  were  tenants  of  both  these  places, 
it  was  manifest  that  parental  neglect,  want  of  early 
instruction  and  proper  care,  had  made  them  what 
they  were.  In  her  walks  of  usefulness  about  the 
city,  she  saw  that  those  who  were  gathered  into 
these  institutions,  were  but  a  mere  cipher,  com- 
pared with  the  numbers,  of  the  same  class  who 
were  still  at  large,  corrupting  others  by  their  in- 
fluence, and  preparing  for  an  early  grave  of  in- 
famy. She  dwelt  much  upon  the  consideration 
that  they  were  victims  of  sin  and  shame,  and 
1  hough  none  seemed  to  care  for  them,  they  were 

somebody'' s  children,^''  allied  to  the  race  by  a  com" 


40 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


mon  bond  of  humanity,  placed  here  on  trial  for 
eternal  life  or  death,  going  with  us  to  the  same 
judgment,  and  soon  to  have  their  immortal  destiny 
decided  according  to  the  deeds  done  in  the  body. 
From  what  had  come  under  her  own  observation, 
she  was  prepared  to  gauge,  in  some  measure,  the 
deep  anguish  of  soul,  the  withering  blight  of  cherish- 
ed hopes — the  unuttered  and  unutterable  agony  en- 
dured by  the  class  alluded  to — and  those  connected 
with  them,  in  consequence  of  early  profligacy,  and 
she  could  not  dwell  upon  it  unmoved.  To  one 
who  had  learned  like  her — 

"  For  others  woes  to  feel, 
To  love  and  weep,  though  wanting  power  to  heal," 

a  picture  like  this,  once  seen,  coidd  not  soon  be 
forgotten.  And  then  she  knew  also  that  these 
lost  ones,  who  had  so  awakened  her  compassion^ 
were  rapidly  passing  away ;  and  when  she  in- 
quired who  would  probably  fill  their  places,  she 
saw  that  the  victims  were  to  come  from  the  youth- 
ful groups  that  are  now  gathered  in  our  sabbath, 
infant,  and  day  schools  ;  from  among  the  prattlers 
around  the  domestic  hearth  and  the  warm  em- 
braces of  a  mother's  love.  This  was  not  a  vain 
fancy,  she  reasoned  from  analogy,  from  cause  to 
effect,  and  she  saw  that  unless  some  means  were 
adopted  to  stay  the  evil,  it  could  not  be  averted 
without  a  miracle. 

Early  in  the  year  1833  the  Moral  Reform  So- 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


41 


ciety  was  originated.  She  saw  in  this  a  bow  of 
promise.  Prevention  was  its  aim,  and  its  mot- 
(o,  Blessed  are  the  pure  in  heart."  She  thought, 
let  parents  everywhere  teach  their  children  to  be 
pure  in  heart,  and  a  blessing  will  be  found  that 
will  reach  this  case,  and  dry  up  these  many 
streams  of  misery  and  death.  She  became  one 
of  its  first  and  most  efficient  managers,  and  prob- 
ably its  continued  success  may  be  attributed  more 
to  her  faith  and  prayers,  than  to  the  instrumentality 
of  any  one  now  living.  Her  interest  in  this  cause 
continued  uniformly  strong,  but  other  charitable 
objects  were  never  neglected  when  she  supposed 
her  influence  could  do  anything  for  their  pro- 
motion. 

Her  visits  and  labors  in  behalf  of  the  orphan 
asylum,  etc.,  brought  her  in  contact  with  many- 
widowed  mothers  and  fathers  who  were  dependant 
on  their  own  exertions  for  their  daily  support, 
consequently  often  obliged  to  leave  their  little 
ones  with  no  attendant,  and  sometimes  were  utter 
ly  unable  to  supply  their  pressing  wants.  Th( 
orphan  asylum  made  no  provision  for  such.  Hei 
mind  was  exercised  in  relation  to  this  matter 
She  knew  not  what  could  be  done,  but  was  led  t( 
pray  about  it  for  several  weeks.    She  expressec 
her  views  to  a  Christian  sister  who  had  occasion 
ally  written  for  the  Mother's  Magazine,  and  de 
4* 


42 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


sired  her  to  unite  with  hnr  in  prayer  for  this  ob- 
ject. As  the  resuh  of  their  interview  this  lady- 
wrote  an  appeal  to  the  Christian  pubhc,  for  the 
columns  of  the  magazine,  which  they  unitedly 
spread  before  the  Lord,  and  then  sent  it  to  the 
press.  It  was  followed  by  other  connnunications 
and  other  minds  were  moved.  After  some  time 
the  half  orphan  asylum,  now  a  flourishing  and  use- 
ful institution,  was  commenced,  and  her  most 
sanguine  hopes  were  realized.  Whether  this  re- 
sult was  in  answer  to  her  prayers  or  those  of 
others,  she  knew  not,  but  she  saw  in  it  the  desire 
of  her  heart,  and  her  usual  expression,  "  Bless  the 
Lord,  0!  my  soul,"  was  uttered  with  overflowing 
gratitude. 

In  the  year  1 837,  Mrs.  Prior  was  first  employed 
by  the  A.  F.  M.  R.  Society,  as  a  city  missionary, 
and  furnished  with  tracts  and  papers,  with  instruc- 
tions to  visit  from  house  to  house,  as  she  had  so 
long  been  accustomed  to  do  in  her  tract  districts. 
She  was  also  requested  to  render  reports  of  her 
labors  at  the  stated  meetings  of  the  society,  that 
extracts  might  be  gathered  suitable  for  their  peri- 
odical. She  remarked  that  she  had  used  her  pen 
but  little  for  many  years,  and  at  her  advanced  age 
she  felt  unable  to  commit  items  to  paper  prepared 
for  the  press.  It  was  suggested  that  she  employ 
some  one  to  write  for  her,  and  after  some  deliber- 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


43 


i  ation,  she  chose  the  writer  of  this  memoir  as  her 
amanuensis.  Her  reports,  as  given  verbally,  were 
briefly  narrated,  together  with  her  remarks,  and 
I  then  read  to  her  for  correction  and  alteration,  so 
I  that  the  statements  and  sentiments  expressed 
I  might  be  entirely  her  own.  She  generally  came 
to  us  with  such  a  variety  of  incident,  that  after 
hearing  her  through,  it  was  somewhat  difficult  to 
begin  and  end  right.  She  perceived  this,  and 
often  while  we  were  writing  would  sit  in  silent 
prayer,  with  her  eyes  closed,  asking  the  Lord  to 
make  the  communication  she  had  givan  fully  un- 
derstood, and  what  was  said  about  it,  the  means 
of  doing  good.  When  her  reports  were  read  to 
the  board  or  publishing  committee,  she  would  fre- 
quently relate  other  circumstances  connected 
with  the  incidents  alluded  to,  but  not  proper  for 
publication,  with  so  much  simplicity  and  pathos, 
that  her  little  auditory  were  sometimes  affected  to 
tears  before  she  had  done  speaking.  Selections 
made  from  these  reports  were  from  time  to  time 
inserted  in  the  Advocate.  Had  her  feelings  of 
delicacy  been  alone  consulted,  their  publicity 
would  have  been  avoided ;  but  as  the  friends  of 
benevolence  who  aided  in  sustaining  the  society's 
efforts  were  concerned  to  know  the  results,  she 
yielded  to  their  wishes,  on  condition  that  her 
name  should  be  withheld.    After  the  first  few 


44 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


months  she  visited  in  connexion  with  others,  and 
none  but  those  personally  acquainted  could  distin- 
guish her  journal  from  theirs.  In  accordance 
with  the  wishes  of  a  wide  circle  of  friends,  wc 
have  made  various  extracts  from  her  journal  in  the 
following  pages. 


>VALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


45 


CHAPTER  V. 

Letters — from  Mrs.  M.  A.  Hawkins. — Mrs,  P.Hunt. — Mrs.  R. 
Beatty. — Anonyirious.— Mrs.  M.  Dye. — Mrs.  M.  I.  Hubbard. 

—Mrs.  J.  A.  D  .—Mrs.  P.  McDowalL— Miss  J.  A.  Reed. 

Mrs.  S.  T.  Martyn. 

Since  the  preparation  of  this  little  work  was 
commenced,  the  following  among  other  communi- 
cations have  been  received,  and  are  inserted  en- 
tire, with  the  exception  of  a  few  brief  paragraphs, 
containing  statements  made  elsewhere.  Some 
were  written  by  request,  others  are  a  free-will 
offering.  Our  object  in  placmg  them  before  the 
reader  in  the  present  form  is,  that  their  united  tes- 
timony may  show  in  what  estimation  Mrs.  Prior's 
character  and  labors  were  held  by  those  who  knew 
her  most  intimately. 

New  York,  June,  1843. 

T  rejoice,  my  dear  sister,  that  you  are  making 
the  effort  to  compile  facts  in  the  life  of  our  late 
lamented  sister  Prior,  and  have  no  doubt,  if  what 
is  known  can  be  collected  and  arranged,  it  may 
with  the  blessing  of  God  lead  many  to  glorify  our 
Father  who  is  in  heaven. 

It  was  not  my  privilege  to  know  Mrs.  Prior  till 
the  year  1833.    At  that  time  our  sister  McDowal 


46 


\VALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


had  moved  to  a  neighborhood  with  which  she  was 
unacquainted,  and  commenced  her  usual  work  of 
gathering  the  females  of  the  different  families  into 
a  little  prayer  meeting.    In  one  of  these  praying 
circles,  in  a  small  rear  building,  I  first  met  Mrs. 
Prior.    She  led  the  meeting,  alternately  praying, 
singing,  exhorting,  or  inviting  others  to  do  th& 
same  ;  and  I  shall  never  forget  her  faithfulness  in 
reproving  a  young  girl  present  adorned  with  a 
profusion  of  jewelry.    I  know  not  what  became 
of  this  individual,  but  several  who  attended  these 
meetings  afterward  united  with  the  visible  church. 
In  the  course  of  this  year  the  Board  of  the  F.  M. 
R.  Society  was  originated,  and  I  a^ain  met  this 
sister  at  its  stated  meetings.    During  the  time  de- 
voted to  business  on  these  occasions,  she  seldom 
spoke  much,  but  her  countenance  indicated  that 
her  heart  was  lifted  in  prayer.    This  attracted 
notice,  and  one  sister  remarked  aside,  tliat  she  felt 
reproved  by  her  appearance,  and  believed  her 
prayers  would  accomplish  more  than  ail  our  plans. 
She  continued  to  assist  in  the  various  efforts  put 
forth  by  this  society  till  the  winter  of  '35,  when 
she  went  to  reside  a  few  months  in  Poughkeepsie. 
She  spent  her  time  while  there  in  di.stnbuting 
tracts,  etc.,  and  doing  good  as  she  had  opportuni- 
t>'.    On  her  return  to  the  city,  our  society  had 
experienced  some  difficulty  in  obtainii>g  suitable 
missionaries  to  visit  from  house  to  hoii!  e.  Sister 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


47 


P.  had  observed  at  some  of  our  consultations-,  "  I 
don't  know  but  the  Lord  will  send  me  into  this  field 
yet."  It  was  well  known  that  no  one  could  have 
been  chosen  better  fitted,  and  the  time  soon  came 
when  she  felt  it  her  duty  to  commence  the  work, 
under  the  auspices  of  the  society.  She  was  the 
first  female  missionary  thus  employed,  and  who 
oan  predict  where  the  blessed  effects  of  her  esi- 
ample,  in  this  respect,  will  end  ?  Many  are  now 
following  in  her  steps,  and  though  dead,  she  yet 
speaketh.  Truly  may  it  be  said  of  her,  "  Blessed 
are  the  dead  who  die  in  the  Lord,  for  they  rest 
from  their  labors,  and  their  works  do  follow  them." 
As  a  missionary,  proclaiming  the  gospel  from 
house  to  house,  she  was  wonderfully  successful ; 
yet  she  did  not  please  all — ^even  good  people  some- 
times treated  her  coolly.  Her  feelings  were  often 
tried  by  indiflference  or  open  opposition,  so  that  she 
was  moved  to  tears ;  and  her  only  solace  was 
found  in  committing  the  matter  to  the  Lord.  *  *  * 
I  trust  none  will  be  discouraged  who  may  read 
the  record  of  this  dear  sister's  efforts,  and  while 
trying  to  do  something  of  the  same  kind,  find 
themselves  unable  to  accomplish  the  good  they 
had  expected,  only  here  and  there  discovering  a 
little  fruit,  and  receiving  many  hints,  both  from 
friends  and  foes,  that  they  are  not  in  the  path  of 
duty.  Let  me  entreat  such  to  seek  wisdom,  as 
did  our  departed  sister,  from  him  who  giveth  lib- 


48 


WALKS   OF  USLFULNESS. 


erally,  and  upbraiilcth  not,  remembering  that  if  he 
is  for  you,  labor  put  forth,  and  seed  sown  in  faith, 
can  not  be  in  vain.  "  In  due  time  ye  shall  reap, 
if  ye  faint  nutJ"    ♦    ♦  * 

I  trust  you  will  avoid  the  usual  fault  of  bioo-ra- 
pliers,  that  of  presenting  but  one  side  of  the  char- 
acter, for  I  am  persuaded  that  many  real  Christians 
are  thus  perplexed  and  disheartened.    The  evi- 
dence is  wanting  that  the  subject  of  the  memoir  to 
which  their  attention  is  directed,  was  one  of  like 
passions  with  themselves  ;  therefore,  they  do  not 
expect  to  make  similar  attainments.    My  experi- 
ence thus  far  in  the  Christian  life  has  tended  to 
confirm  the  observation,  that  "  while  the  sincere 
Christian  does  design  to  order  all  his  life  in  con- 
formity to  the  law  of  God,  yet  the  infirmities  of 
the  flesh,  and  the  power  of  our  arch-enemy  Satan, 
do  so  combine,  as  sometimes  to  betray  us  into 
wrong  states  of  feeling  and  action."    This  was 
true  of  our  sister  Prior,  daily  denying  self,  taking 
up  her  cross,  following  whithersoever  her  Savior 
led,  nightly  spreading  her  work  before  the  mercy- 
seat,  and  inquiring  wherein  she  might  have  of- 
fended in  thought,  word,  or  deed,  and  receiving 
comfort  from  the  blessed  assurance,  that  "  if  we 
confess  our  sins,  he  is  faithful  and  just  to  forgive 
us  our  sins,  and  to  cleanse  us  from  all  unrighteous- 
ness:'   Naturally  high-spirited,  and  of  an  ardent 
icraperanicut,  the  was  liable  to  apply  things  to 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


49 


herself  not  intended,  and  sometimes  to  speak  from 
the  impulse  of  the  moment ;  but  if  she  retired  to 
rest  before  she  had  asked  forgiveness  where  she 
might  have  been  wrong,  she  was  sure  on  the  mor- 
row to  seek  the  earliest  opportunity  to  do  so.  Thus 
self  was  abased,  and  God  honored  ;  the  power  of 
grace  triumphed,  and  the  Christian  conquered. 
She  rather  sought  than  shunned  the  Cross  :  her 
frequent  reply  to  those  who  sympathized  in  her 
trials,  or  complained  of  their  own,  was,  "  No  cross, 
no  crown."  There  were  many  members  of  the 
church  with  which  she  stood  connected,  who, 
without  examining  for  themselves,  had  imbibed  the 
popular  prejudice  against  the  cause  of  moral  re- 
form. After  she  had  openly  identified  herself 
with  its  advocates,  some  of  these  brethren  and 
sisters  became  reserved  and  distant ;  the  Avarm 
current  of  Christian  affection  ever  manifested  be- 
fore, seemed  suddenly  congealed.  Had  she  been 
guilty  of  some  flagrant  misdemeanor,  "  not  to  be 
repented  of,"  the  averted  eye  and  cold  greeting 
could  not  have  intimated  more  plainly  a  disposition 
to  say,  "  Stand  by  thyself."  She  was  too  quick 
to  discern,  not  to  be  aware  of  the  existing  state 
of  feeling ;  and  to  her  sensitive,  loving  spirit,  the 
trial  was  rather  hard.  She  was  conscious  that  it 
must  be  highly  displeasing  to  the  Savior  to  wit- 
nesp  this  uncandid,  prejudiced  state  of  mind  among 
hi!)  owi,  -hiidren,  and  Ler  iiearL  v/as  grieved  tuot^ 


50 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


on  account  of  their  sin,  thaji  because  of  personal 
feeling.  However,  she  resolved  to  "  love  on  and 
love  ever" — going  forward  in  that  path  of  duty 
which  to  her  mind  had  been  made  manifest  as  the 
8UI1  at  noonday.  A  year  or  two  previous  to  hfer 
death  she  had  the  happiness  to  meet  a  degree  of 
returning  confidence  and  kindness  from  those  whi 
bad  so  long  stood  aloof,  which  she  received  wit! 
pleasure  and  gratitude.  The  Psalmist  has  said. 
The  secret  of  the  Lord  is  with  them  that  fea'^ 
him,  and  he  will  show  them  his  covenant."  Mrs 
Prior's  daily  experience  bore  witness  to  this  pre 
cious  truth.  Her  simplicity  in  prayer  and  strong 
faith  were  tndy  remarkable,  and  I  think  none  who 
marked  her  course  from  day  to  day  could  doubt 
that  she  had  power  with  God.  It  was  on  this 
account  that  she  was  so  near  to  me,  and  for  this 
cause  it  was  so  painful  for  us  to  part  with  her  ; 
but,  "  are  they  not  all  ministering  spirits,  sent  forth 
to  minister  to  those  who  shall  be  heirs  of  salva- 
tion?"   •    •    •  • 

Affectionately  yours, 

M.  A.  Hawkins. 


Brooklyn,  July  21,  1843. 
•       *       *       *   I  am  glad  you  are  prepar 
ing  a  memoir  of  our  departed  sister  Prior.  I  presume 
all  who  have  read  her  reports  as  one  of  the  visit- 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


51 


ing  committee  of  the  A.  F.  M.  R.  Society  will  be 
anxious  to  learn  more  of  her.  She  possessed  one 
trait  of  character  in  which  she  always  appeared 
to  me  peculiarly  assimilated  to  her  Master.  It 
was  in  her  sympathy  with  the  sick  and  afflicted; 
she  was  not  only  ready  to  weep  with  those  who 
wept,  and  to  administer  words  of  comfort  and  con- 
solation to  them,  but  where  pecuniary  aid  was 
needed  she  was  equally  ready  to  bestow ;  and 
when  her  own  resources  failed,  she  would  call 
upon  her  Christian  friends,  and  obtain  from  them 
the  means  by  which  she  caused  many  a  widow's 
heart  to  sing  for  joy.  I  have  myself  experienced, 
while  watching  over  the  dying  bed  of  a  beloved 
child,  how  deeply  she  could  sympathize  with  the 
afflicted ;  and  I  can  not  better  describe  the  effect 
these  visits  had  upon  that  dear  child,  than  by 
quoting  her  own  words.  One  day  after  Mrs.  Prior 
had  left  the  room,  she  exclaimed,  "  Oh  mother, 
if  it  is  so  sweet  to  meet  Christians  here,  what 
will  it  be  in  heaven  ?"  She  appeared  to  adopt  the 
language  of  the  psalmist  with  all  her  heart,  "  I  have 
none  in  heaven  but  thee,  and  there  is  none  on 
earth  I  desire  beside  thee  ;"  and  to  be  constantly 
looking  forward  with  pleasure  to  the  time  when 
she  should  be  absent  from  the  body  and  present 
with  the  Lord.  I  recollect  her  saying  to  me  soon 
after  May-day,  the  last  time  but  one  that  she 
moved,  "  I  have  been  very  much  fatigued,  but  the 


52 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


Savior  seemed  to  say,  '  Be  patient,  you  will  not 
have  it  to  do  many  times  more.' "  In  conversing 
with  a  Christian  sister  who  had  followed  most 
of  her  family  to  the  grave,  and  who  was  dwelling 
upon  the  idea  of  meeting  them  in  heaven,  she  re- 
plied, "  I  have  long  since  learned  to  regard  God 
as  the  ocra/i,  and  my  children  and  friends  as  drops 
which  I  received  from  it,  and  which  have  again 
returned  to  mingle  with  it." 

It  is  often  said  that  we  magnify  the  virtues  and 
forget  the  faults  of  our  friends  M'hen  they  are 
dead.    However  this  may  be,  the  following  re- 
mark I  have  often  made  in  her  lifetime,  "  It  is 
my  opinion  that  very  few  ministers  in  this  city 
have  been  directly  instrumental  in  the  salvation 
of  more  sinners  than  she  was,  while  employed  by 
the  M.  R.  Society."    It  might  be  said  with  truth 
of  her  as  of  the  early  disciples,  she  "  went  every- 
where preaching  the  word."    I  met  a  friend  the 
other  day  from  the  west,  we  were  speaking  of 
Mrs.  P.,  I  asked,  "Did  you  ever  see  her?"  she 
replied  "  Yes,  once,  and  I  shall  never  forget  the 
impression  she  made  upon  my  mind  as  I  listened 
to  her  recital  of  some  of  the  scenes  of  sorrow  and 
suffering  she  had  witnessed.    I  could  not  help 
thinking  she  was  literally  '  eyes  to  the  blind,  and 
feet  to  the  lame.'"    I  mention  this  to  show  the 
impression  she  made  upon  strangers.  *    *    »  * 
Yours  truly,       P.  Hunt. 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS.  53 

Dear  Madam  :  Knowing  that  you  are  about  to 
publish  a  memoir  of  the  late  venerable  and  highly 
esteemed  Margaret  Prior,  it  i«  with  great  pleasure 
I  improve  the  privilege  of  furnishing  one  or  two 
incidents  which  attest  not  only  her  faithfulness 
and  fearlessness,  but  the  fulfilment  of  the  promises 
of  God,  who  hath  said,  "  In  all  thy  ways  acknow- 
ledge him,  and  he  shall  direct  thy  paths,"  "  My 
grace  is  sufficient  for  thee,"  Slc.  Those  of  us 
who  enjoyed  the  pleasure  of  an  intimate  acquaint- 
ance with  her,  well  know  that  the  descending  tor- 
rent, the  piercing  blast  accompanied  by  hail  or 
snow,  did  not  prevent  her  from  going  abroad  on 
her  errands  of  mercy  while  health  would  admit, 
till  she  had  nearly  numbered  her  threescore  years 
and  ten.  One  morning  as  the  rain  was  falling, 
after  seeking  direction  from  the  Lord,  she  went 
out  as  usual  to  attend  to  the  wants  of  the  needy 
whom  she  had  found  in  the  highways  and  lanes 
of  the  city ;  and  had  not  proceeded  far  when  she 
was  accosted  by  a  pretty-faced  interesting-looking 
Irish  girl,  of  about  16,  who  inquired  the  direct 

way  to  W  St.,  producing  a  ticket  she  had  just 

received  from  an  intelligence  office,  with  the  num- 
ber of  a  dwelling  where  she  expected  a  situation 
as  chamber-maid.  Learning  that  the  poor  girl 
could  not  read,  Mrs.  Prior  kindly  offered  to  ac- 
company her.  During  the  walk  she  stated  that 
she  had  been  early  deprived  by  death  of  a  faith- 
5* 


54 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


ful  motlicr,  and  being  in  indigent  circumstances 
had  encountered  the  perils  of  the  deep,  with  the 
hope  of  obtaining  permanent  and  profitable  em- 
ployment. Such  advice  as  the  case  required  was 
imparted,  and  so  much  did  the  sympathies  of  the 
dear  old  lady  become  enlisted  in  the  homeless 
stranger,  that  she  went  with  her  to  the  door  of  the 
house,  hoping  to  enlist  the  sympathies  of  her  em- 
ployer. Instead,  however,  of  being  received  with 
that  courtesy  and  kindness  which  her  age  demand- 
ed, she  was  rebuked  with  such  indignity  as  led 
her  to  make  inquiry  in  the  neighborhood  respect- 
ing the  character  of  the  house,  which  she  learned 
was  decidedly  bad.  Alarmed  for  the  safety  of  the 
girl  she  returned  to  the  place  just  as  the  young 
stranger  was  leaving  the  door,  having  engaged  to 
serve  for  88.00  per  month,  and  to  return  imme- 
diately after  getting  her  clothes.  When  informed 
by  Mrs.  Prior  that  the  house  was  disreputable  she 
expressed  much  gratitude  that  the  discovery  had 
been  made  before  she  entered  with  her  little  all, 
adding  that  no  price  would  induce  her  to  return, 
as  she  preferred  a  virtuous  life  to  great  riches. 
The  good  old  lady  offered  to  procure  a  place  for 
her,  where  her  present  and  future  interests  would 
be  cared  for  ;  but  desired  first  to  see  the  person  af 
the  intelligence  office  who  could  be  instrumental 
in  efTecling  the  ruin  of  the  innocent  and  unwary 
After  making  her  statements  to  him,  he  professed 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


55 


entire  ignorance  of  the  woman's  device,  and  said  he 
was  happy  to  be  informed,  and  would  be  cautious 
in  future,  though  he  had  furnished  the  same  wo- 
man with  eight  or  ten  servants  per  month,  and  had 
found  it  difficult  to  please  the  harpy,  as  she  was 
very  particular  to  have  those  sent  who  (to  use  her 
own  words)  were  "  good-looking,"  The  girl  was 
provided  for  immediately  in  a  pious  family,  where 
she  still  continues  very  much  respected,  having 
learned  to  read,  and  has  also  given  evidence  of 
saving  conversion.  She  ceases  not  to  express 
her  gratitude  to  Mrs.  P.  for  the  trouble  and  anxiety 
she  manifested  in  her  behalf,  and  by  which  alone 
she  was  rescued. 

At  another  time  she  called  on  me  wearied  in 
mind  and  body,  and  related  with  much  emotion  a 
hazardous  interview  she  had  just  had  at  the  house 
of  a  fortune-teller.  She  had  been  requested  by  a 
Christian  friend  to  call  at  the  place  and  leave 
tracts,  &c.  The  friend  accompanied  her,  and 
they  were  met  at  the  door  by  the  dealer  in  the 
black  art,  who  accosted  them  in  a  low  tone,  say- 
ing :  "  Ladies  I  am  sorry  you  can  not  have  your  for- 
tunes told  just  now,  but  there  are  so  many  wailing, 
you  will  have  to  sit  some  time  first,"  She  assured 
him  that  he  had  mistaken  their  object,  but  they 
walked  in,  and  took  seats  in  the  parlor  where 
were  a  number  of  females  genteelly  dressed — with 
double  veils — waiting  to  be  told  their  future  des- 


56 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


tiny.  As  the  magician  entered  his  private  room 
with  one  of  them,  being  left  alone  with  the  others, 
Mrs.  Prior  embraced  the  opportunity  to  converse 
with  them  about  the  future  destiny  of  their  souls. 
They  listened  attentively,  and  some  wept.  She 
knelt  to  pray  with  them,  but  as  soon  as  the  voice 
of  prayer  was  heard,  the  fortune-teller  came  from 
his  room  in  great  wrath  and  bade  her  rise  and 
leave  his  house.  Unmoved  by  his  rage  she  con- 
tinued prayer,  but  as  several  of  the  women  began 
to  leave  and  he  saw  that  he  should  lose  his  fees, 
he  grew  more  angry,  and  saying  she  should  not 
leave  by  the  door  she  entered,  hastily  locked  it ; 
and,  with  her  friend,  she  was  obliged  to  make  her 
escape  by  a  back  way  through  a  narrow  nine-pin 
alley.  Here  there  were  a  large  collection  of  men 
engaged  in  sport ;  she  stopped  and  spent  a  few 
moments  distributing  her  tracts  and  preaching  the 
gospel  to  them.  Some  used  harsh  language,  but 
others  listened  silently.  She  was  much  overcome 
while  relating  the  circumstance,  but  felt  that  the 
Lord  had  strengthened  her  to  be  a  witness  for  him 
in  the  presence  of  his  enemies. 

We  who  have  had  the  privilege  of  administeiang 
to  her  a  draught  of  cold  water,  and  a  piece  of  brdid, 
when  she  entered  our  dwellings  weary  and  fa- 
tigued by  her  excessive  labor  to  do  good  to  the 
perishing,  are  admonished  by  her  precious  ex- 
ample to  be  "  Diligent  in  business,  fervent  in 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


57 


spirit,  serving  the  Lord."  Does  she  not  even  now 
whisper  to  us  from  her  bright  abode,  "  Be  not 
weary  in  well-doing,  for  in  due  time  ye  shall  reap 
if  ye  faint  not  ?"  That  the  friends  who  knew  and 
loved  her  on  earth  may  so  improve  the  grace  given 
them  that  they  may  all  ultimately,  through  grace 
in  Christ  Jesus,  unite  with  her  in  casting  their 
crowns  at  his  feet,  and  sing  with  the  redeemed 
"  Not  unto  us,  O  Lord,  not  unto  us,  but  unto  thy 
name  be  honor  and  glory  for  ever,"  is  the  prayer  ot 
your  unworthy  fellow-laborer  in  the  cause  of  moral 
purity. 

R.  Beattie 


Bloomingdale,  July,  1843. 
******** 

Impressions  are  often  formed  in  early  youth, 
which  neither  time  nor  a  diversity  of  circumstances 
can  wholly  obliterate  ;  they  blend  as  it  were  with 
our  very  nature,  and  seem  to  connect  themselves 
intimately  with  all  the  subsequent  relations  of 
life.  The  most  pleasing,  and  probably  the  most 
beneficial  impressions  of  my  younger  days  were 
received  from  the  frequent  visits  of  Mrs.  Prior  at 
the  house  of  my  grandmother,  between  whom  and 
herself  there  existed  for  many  years  a  close  friend- 
ship. Though  young  and  weak  in  judgment,  there 
was  an  instinctive  feeling  within,  which  bade  mo 


58 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


acknowledge  her  incstimable^worth  ;  and  I  learned 
to  love  and  respect  her  long  before  I  knew  why. 
The  manner  in  which  she  admonished  me  for  my 
childish  faults,  and  pointed  out  the  path  of  duty, 
won  upon  my  young  heart,  and  produced  that  af- 
fection and  esteem  which  time  served  only  to 
strengthen  and  confirm.  To  her  I  am  indebted 
for  my  first  correct  ideas  of  the  Bible.  Accus- 
tomed at  school  to  consider  it  as  a  task  from  which 
so  many  verses  were  to  be  learned  by  rote,  or  at 
home,  as  an  ordinary  exercise  of  daily  occurrence, 
and  like  most  children,  who  think  books  are  given 
them  but  to  tax  the  power  of  memory,  I  did  not 
examine  into  its  meaning,  or  profit  by  its  precepts. 
She  early  perceived  this,  and  endeavored  by  de- 
scribing the  great  goodness  and  mercy  of  God, 
and  selecting  those  passages  in  scripture  which 
most  forcibly  illustrate  both,  to  awaken  in  my 
mind  a  sense  of  our  depcndance  on  our  Creator, 
and  the  awful  retribution  which  must  be  the  result 
of  disobedience  to  his  commands.  As  years  in- 
creased, the  love  and  affection  of  the  child  became 
merged  in  the  admiration  and  just  appreciation  of 
riper  youth ;  kindly  offices  which  at  first  seemed 
the  result  of  individual  attachment,  a  further  ac- 
quaintance convinced  me  were  but  the  promptings 
of  a  heart  devoted  to  the  good  of  being.  Her 
philanthropy  was  as  disinterested  as  it  was  ex- 
tended, and  as  active  as  it  was  enlarged.    *  *  • 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


59 


I  recollect  one  instance  of  her  benevolence  that 
is  but  a  specimen  of  many  others.  In  consequence 
of  the  extreme  heat  during  one  of  the  summer 
-iionths,  several  cartmen  had  lost  horses,  upon 
ivhose  labor  theic  families  depended  for  daily 
oread.  She  no  sooner  learned  this,  than  she  irfi* 
mediately  went  to  her  neighbors  soliciting  a  sufB- 
cient  sum  to  buy  these  poor  cartmen  other  horses, 
that  they  might  resume  their  work  :  sometimes 
she  met  with  rebuffs,  at  other  times  remonstran- 
ces ;  but  she  was  enabled  to  conquer  all  obstacles 
and  obtain  her  end.  On  one  occasion  in  going  to 
market  she  lost  a  three  dollar  bill,  and  when  re- 
turning home  she  discovered  her  loss :  she  said, 
silently,  "  Lord,  if  it  be  thy  will  that  I  should  find 
this  bill,  the  first  poor  I  meet  shall  receive  the 
benefit  of  it."  On  retracing  her  steps  she  found 
the  bill,  and  a  family  of  six  poor  children  were 
fed  by  it  for  several  days.  The  objects  of  her 
benevolence  were  ever  the  poor,  the  weak,  the 
needy,  and  on  their  hearts  her  memory  is  engraved 
and  hallowed  with  tears  of  gratitude.    *    *  » 

«  * 

New-York,  July,  1843. 
It  w^as  my  privilege  to  be  intimately  acquainted 
with     iter  Prior  during  the  last  six  years  of  her 
life.    We  were  members  of  the  same  church,  and 


60 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


coadjutors  in  the  work  of  moral  reform.  I  first 
saw  her  at  a  love-feast,  where  in  exalted  strains 
she  bore  testimony  to  the  faithfulness  of  a  cove- 
nant-keeping God,  M'ho  had,  I  think  thq  night  be- 
fore, answered  the  prayers  of  many  years  in  the 
conversion  of  her  only  son. 

As  a  Christian  she  was  most  exemplary.  She 
delighted  in  the  ordinances  of  God's  house  ;  her 
seat  was  rarely  vacant,  and  her  lixed  and  devout 
attention  bespoke  the  interest  she  felt  in  the  min- 
istry of  the  word. 

To  her,  sacramental  seasons  were  truly  spiritual 
feasts  :  usually  the  swelling  emotions  of  her  heart 
found  vent  in  tears  ;  and  sometimes,  in  her  abound- 
ing joy,  she  would  audibly  ascribe  praise  to  God. 

She  greatly  prized  her  class-meeting,  and  there, 
as  well  as  in  meetings  for  prayer,  her  heartfelt 
and  powerful  exhortations  to  faithfulness  in  duty, 
and  consecration  to  the  cause  of  Christ,  were  a 
means  of  quickening  and  encouragement  to  many 
who  heard  her. 

In  private  she  was  equally  exemplary ;  every 
Christian  grace  adorned  her  character.  In  her 
devoted  attachment  to  the  closet  might  be  found 
the  cause  of  her  fidelity  and  remarkable  success 
in  pubUc.  Prayer  was  her  life.  Nor  did  she  offer 
unbelieving  petitions  to  God  :  her's  was  "  the  fer- 
vent,  effectual  prayer,  that  availeth  much  ;"  and  ia 
her  enlar^^sd  desires  she  Cinbric^'l  the  v/orlJ. 


WALKS  OF  rSEFULXESS. 


61 


Often  the  promise  was  literally  fulfilled,  "  Before 
ye  call  I  will  answer,  and  while  ye  are  yet  speak- 
ing I  will  hear."  She  was  favored  with  remark- 
able answers  to  prayer. 

It  was  her  custom  to  devote  her  evenings  exclu- 
sively to  religious  exercises  :  then  the  doings  of 
each  day  passed  under  strict  review,  her  motives 
and  actions  were  subjected  to  the  scripture  test, 
and  all  was  commended  to  God  in  humble  prayer 
and  faith.  Thus  was  she  strengthened  for  the  la- 
borious duties  of  each  succeeding  day. 

She  diligently  studied  the  Avord  of  God  :  to  her 
the  sacred  volume  was  an  inexhaustible  mine  of 
wealth,  and  every  opportunity  was  improved  to 
enrich  herself  from  its  treasures.  In  her  walks 
of  usefulness  she  carried  with  her  a  testament, 
which  she  read  while  waiting  to  see  those  on 
whom  she  called  The  Bible  was  her  standard, 
her  rule  of  faith  and  practice.  Consequently,  it 
was  her  aim  to  "  take  up  her  cross  daily,  deny  her- 
self wholly,  and  follow  Christ  fully."  Her  whole 
life  was  regulated  upon  the  principle,  "  Ye  are  not 
your  own,  ye  are  bought  with  a  price ;  therefore, 
glorify  God  in  your  body  and  in  your  spirit,  which 
are  his."" 

Her  remarkable  conscientiousness  was  apparent 
in  everything,  especially  in  her  exact  observance 
of  truth.    In  relating  occurrences,  or  expressing 
opinions,  she  was  extremely  guarded,  using  ^uc^ 
r. 


62 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


terms  only  as'  might  cosvey  the  desired  impres- 
sion. Her  conversation  was  seasoned  with  grace, 
and  calculated  to  edify  her  hearers.  She  abhor- 
red "  evil-speaking,"  and  nfever  allowed  an  indi- 
vidual to  detract  from  the  character  of  another  in 
her  presence. 

In  dress  she  obsen^ed  plainness,  neatnesrs,  and 
durability.  She  had  been  fond  of  tasteful  apparel, 
had  warn  fine  needlework,  &c.,  som.etime  after 
she  professed  religion  ;  but  when  she  advanced  in 
religious  experience,  and  became  enlightened  on 
this  point,  whatever  she  supposed  that  the  Savior 
would  disapprove,  was  cheerftdly  sacrificed.  Her 
ornamented  dresses  were  cut  up  into  infants'  caps, 
and  distributed  among  the  poor.  For  many  years 
she  wore  the  simple  garb  of  the  Friends,  but  final- 
ly abandoned  it,  because  she  could  be  so  readily 
identified,  that  after  the  first  or  second  time,  she 
found  it  difficult  to  obtain  admission  into  houses 
where  her  w^arnings  and  reproofs  were  unwel 
come. 

She  redeemed  the  time,  bestowing  on  those  ob- 
jects the  largest  proportion  whicli  by  the  world 
are  little  regarded.  She  made  visits  and  calls 
only  when  she  expected  to  receive  or  impart  ben- 
efit. These  interviews  were  always  short,  the 
conversation  confined  to  religious  topics,  and  usu- 
ally concluded  with  prayer. 

Her  principles  were  carried  out  with  great  con- 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


63 


sistency,  never  suffering  her  to  patronise  the 
vicious  and  unprincipled.  When  temperance 
stores  were  first  established,  she  took  great  pains, 
and  subjected  herself  to  much  inconvenience,  to 
give  them  all  her  custom.  She  frequently  called 
on  the  dealers  who  pursued  the  nefarious  traffic 
in  her  neighborhood,  and  assured  them,  that  but 
for  this,  she  would  be  glad  to  trade  with  them, 
and  added  such  searching  appeals  to  conscience, 
and  earnest  exhortations  to  abandon  it,  as  were 
sometimes  successful. 

She  was  pointed  and  faithful,  though  very  kind^ 
in  reproving  sin  ;  no  transgressor  whom  she  could 
reach  escaped  rebuke,  and  she  thus  often  incurred 
the  displeasure  of  the  ungodly.  At  one  time  sev- 
eral individuals  were  so  incensed  against  her,  that 
she  told  me  she  suspected  an  effort  would  be  made 
to  waylay  and  injure  her.  Whenever  it  was  con- 
sistent, before  reproving  an  individual,  it  was  made 
the  subject  of  special  prayer. 

But  Mrs.  Prior's  benevolence^  her  active,  labori- 
ous, untiring,  disinterested  efforts  to  do  good,  were 
what  particularly  distinguished  her.  She  lived 
not  for  herself,  but  to  relieve  human  misery,  and 
win  souls  to  Christ.  The  world  was  her  field  of 
labor,  and  every  son  and  daughter  of  Adam  shared 
in  her  sympathies. 

St.  Paul's  description  of  a  useful  woman  (1  Tim. 
5,  10)  may  with  great  propriety  be  applied  to  her, 


64 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


She  brought  up  children,"  "  lodged  strangers," 
"  washed  the  saints'  feet,"  "  relieved  the  afflicted," 
and  "  diligently  followed  every  good  work."  In 
the  use  of  all  that  she  possessed,  she  regarded 
herself  as  the  Lord's  steward :  he  had  command- 
ed, "  Occupy  till  I  come," — and  when  he  came, 
he  found  his  "  own  with  increase."  These  efforts 
were  not  confined  to  a  few  years,  but  characterized 
her  whole  Christian  life. 

She  was  frequently  called  from  home  to  attend 
the  sick  and  afflicted ;  and  in  order  that  her  db- 
mestic  affairs  might  receive  due  attention,  and  no 
opportunity  be  given  for  reproach,  she  often  took 
the  requisite  time  from  hours  allotted  to  sleep  to 
attend  to  them. 

She  was  jealous  of  the  time  that  the  care  of 
supp.rjliious  rooms  and  furniture  demanded,  and 
once  succeeded  in  gaining  her  husband's  consent 
to  close  her  parlors  for  a  year. 

Her  house  was  an  asylum  for  the  friendless  :  I 
have  known  her  take  in  a  deserted  wife  and  her 
little  ones,  and  maintain  them  several  weeks. 
Applications  for  pecuniary  assistance  were  prompt- 
ly met,  and  generally  exceeded  the  expectations 
of  applicants. 

She  was  remarkable  for  devising  ways  and 
means  of  usefulness  :  her  mind  was  fruitful  in 
expedients.  The  wisdom  of  the  serpent,  and  the 
harmlessness  of  the  dove,  were  happily  blended  in 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


65 


her  efforts.  In  a  neglected  district  she  would, 
from  her  own  purse,  hire  the  use  of  some  poor 
widow's  room,  pay  her  for  preparing  it,  and  stated- 
ly gather  in  the  neighboring  women  for  prayer. 
In  the  vicinity  of  a  revival,  she  would  make  spe- 
cial effort  to  induce  the  people  to  attend  church, 
frequently  allowing  the  industrious  poor  what  they 
could  make  in  the  time  thus  occupied.  Ai  the  door 
of  a  brothel,  when  other  means  have  failed,  she 
has  gained  access  to  the  inmates  by  sending  word 
that  an  old  lady  had  "jewels  f*  them,"  referring 
to  the  society's  tract.  And  under  similar  circum- 
stances, by  assuming  the  appearance  of  a  washer- 
woman, she  has  been  permitted  to  see,  and  effected 
the  rescue  of,  one  Avho  was  unwillingly  detained 
in  an  earthly  hell.  Sometimes  by  means  of  an 
alley  or  private  door  she  would  enter  these  houses 
unobserved,  and  her  appearance  among  the  wretch- 
ed inmates  would  be  as  unexpected,  and  unwel- 
come, as  though  she  were  a  visitant  from  the  spirit- 
land. 

In  places  where  the  mingled  effects  of  idleness, 
destitution,  and  crime,  would  cause  the  benevolent 
to  despair  of  affording  more  than  temporary  relief, 
her  mind  would  fix  instinctively  upon  the  point  at 
which  a  thorough  reformation  must  begin,  and 
with  energy  and  faith  she  has  carried  on  the  blessed 
work,  until  families  have  been  redeemed,  and  pre- 
pared to  fill  reputable  stations  in  society.  In  some 
6* 


66 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


cases,  after  securing  the  gratitude  of  a  degraded 
family  by  relieving  pressing  want,  she  has  sent 
for  lime,  instructed  and  assisted  them  in  the  use 
of  it,  given  directions  for  cleaning  the  apartment, 
and  promised  to  call  at  a  certain  time  and  reward 
them  if  it  were  attended  to.  Then  in  a  clean 
room  she  would  impart  wholesome  instruction, 
incite  them  to  industry,  procure  work  for  them, 
clothe  the  children,  and  place  them  in  Sunday 
school,  &c.  It  is  my  opinion  that  she  never  aban- 
doned such  a  faAily,  until  satisfied  that  she  had 
done  everything  that  could  be  done  for  their  tem- 
poral and  eternal  salvation. 

At  my  request,  she  visited  a  family  where  the 
husband  and  wife  were  unhappy  in  their  union, 
and  through  whose  mutual  mismanagement  a 
daughter  of  about  fifteen  was  in  danger  of  being 
ruined.  By  her  kind,  motherly  manner,  she  won 
the  confidence  of  the  wife,  who  frankly  related 
her  grievances,  and  thus  opened  the  way  for  suit- 
able counsel  to  both  mother  and  daughter.  The 
girl  expressed  a  willingness  to  work,  and  Mrs.  P. 
told  her,  if  she  would  neatly  execute  some  sewing 
her  mother  needed  by  a  given  time,  she  would 
handsomely  reward  her  and  procure  her  other 
work.  The  task  was  accomplished,  and  the 
promises  fulfilled.  Her  visits  were  frequently 
repeated,  and  in  a  short  time  the  whole  aspect 
of  afiairs  was  changed, — the  girl  was  rescued 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS.  67 

from  the  snares  that  beset  her,  the  family  was 
happy. 

It  was  evidently  her  pm-pose  to  promote  the 
spiritual  and  temporal  welfare  of  all  whom  she 
met.  "  Instant  in  season,  and  out  of  season,"  no 
individual  was  overlooked,  no  opportunity  neg- 
lected. This  was  strikingly  illustrated  in  travel- 
ling. The  year  preceding  her  death,  she  attended 
the  semi-annual  meeting  at  Utica.  As  was  her 
custom,  she  carried  with  her  a  liberal  supply  of 
tracts  and  Moral  Reform  Advocates,  and  early  on 
the  passage  she  presented  them  to  all  who  were 
accessible  within  or  without  the  cabin ;  they 
were  perused  with  apparent  interest,  and  in  many 
cases  exchanged  for  others.  The  evening  was 
spent  in  religious  conversation  with  several  of  the 
passengers.  When  her  friends  were  about  to 
leave  the  boat,  Mrs.  P.  was  missing.  She  was 
found  aside,  urging  upon  the  chambermaid  the 
great  duty  of  giving  her  heart  to  Christ. 

That  summer  she  visited  Springfield,  New  Jer- 
sey. She  arrived  on  Saturday  evening,  and  spent 
the  night  and  the  Sabbath  with  a  valued  friend. 

On  Monday  morning  the  carriage  was  prepared 
to  carry  her  to  another  friend's,  perhaps  one  mile 
distant ;  but  she  positively  refused  to  ride,  saying, 
she  "  came  not  to  ride,  but  to  work  for  the  Lord." 
She  walked,  and  called  in  each  house  on  the  way, 
left  tracts  and  papers,  conversed,  and  occasionally 


68 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


prayed  with  the  inmates.  When  she  set  out  to 
return,  she  walked  to  the  Springfield  depot,  a  dis- 
tance of  three  miles,  and  labored  as  before 
About  half  way,  she  providentially  entered  a  house 
just  in  season  to  save  the  life  of  an  individual, 
who  was  in  iminent  danger,  and  would  in  all 
probability  have  died,  but  for  her  timely  assistance 
The  rest  of  the  way  was  more  thickly  settled, 
but  she  visited  every  house.  At  the  tavern,  she 
found  several  ladies  in  the  sitting-room,  upon 
whom  she  faithfully  urged  the  claims  of  the  gos- 
pel. At  the  depot  she  received  some  assistance 
from  a  gentlemen,  to  whom,  as  soon  as  they  were 
seated,  she  addressed  her  usual  question,  "  Do 
you  love  the  Savior  ?"  He  replied,  that  it  was  a 
long  time  since  he  had  been  asked  that  question, 
and  that  he  was  a  professor  of  religion.  He  can- 
didly related  his  state  of  mind,  which  was  some- 
what peculiar ;  and  from  her  rich  experience  in 
the  divine  life,  and  extensive  knowledge  of  the 
word  of  God,  she  was  enabled  to  impart  counsel 
and  encouragement  that  resulted,  as  was  after- 
ward ascertained,  in  a  revival  of  the  work  of  grace 
in  his  heart.  She  also  recommended  the  Advo- 
cate and  the  principles  of  moral  reform  to  his  at- 
tention (as  she  did  on  every  suitable  occasion), 
and  he  at  once  subscribed  for  the  paper. 

In  conversing  with  the  impenitent  she  could  not 
quiet  her  conscience,  by  indirect  allusionSy  or  a  few 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


69 


general  remarks  concerning  the  importance  of  re- 
ligion. She  did  not  "  soften  the  truth,  or  smooth 
her  tongue,"  lest  she  should  give  offence,  but  faith- 
fully made  known  to  them  their  duty. 

On  one  occasion  she  handed  a  lady  a  tract  at 
the  door,  accompanied  by  a  few  words  on  the  im- 
portance of  the  subject  of  which  it  treated.  She 
had  walked  but  a  few  steps  from  the  house  when 
she  felt  that  she  had  not  done  her  whole  duty,  and 
returned.  She  apologised  to  the  lady,  who  again 
met  her,  by  saying,  "  I  have  but  half  done  my  er- 
rand and  then  warned  her  in  so  kind  a  manner 
that  she  could  say,  "  If  you  perish,  my  skirts  are 
clean  of  your  blood." 

Probably  no  person  in  this  city  could,  from  per- 
sonal observation,  more  correctly  gauge  the  amount 
of  crime  and  wretchedness  existing  in  it  than  Mrs. 
Prior,  For  many  years  she  had  diligently  traver- 
sed its  lanes  and  by  ways,  and  explored  its  gar- 
rets and  cellars,  and  daily  witnessed  the  appalling 
effects  of  sin.  As  she  advanced  in  age,  these  ex- 
citing scenes  affected  her  nervous  system,  and 
frequently  deprived  her  of  sleep.  Sometimes 
whole  nights  were  spent  in  weeping  and  supplica- 
tion, on  account  of  the  abominations  that  surrounded 
her.  When  thus  exercised  she  felt  that  it  would 
be  a  privilege  to  spend  the  evening  of  life  in  re- 
tirement, and  comparative  quiet ;  but  she  saw  the 
field  white  to  the  harvest  and  the  laborers  few, 


to  WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 

and  the  love  of  Christ,  and  of  souls,  constrained 
her  to  toil  on. 

In  her  last  sickness,  on  account  of  indisposition, 
I  seldom  saw  her.  At  one  time  she  sent  for  me  ; 
during  our  interview  I  remarked  I  thought  I  should 
feel  comparatively  cheerful  in  view  of  death,  if  I 
had  been  more  useful ;  1  was  scarcely  willing  to 
leave  the  world  when  I  had  done  so  little  in  it. 
She  replied,  that  she  "  had  never  before  been  left 
to  depend  on  naked  faith,  as  in  this  sickness,"  and 
added,  "  Of  all  the  good  works  that  I  have  done,  I 
can  see  nothing ;  they  are  completely  hidden.  I 
can  see  nothing  but  the  Cros^nothing  but  the  Cross.^* 

She  spoke  most  affectionately  of  the  Christian 
sisters  with  whom  she  had  been  so  long  associated 
in  the  board,  and  Executive  Committee,  of  the 
Moral  Reform  Society  ;  of  the  importance  of  their 
being  much  in  prayer,  and  entirely  devoted,  and 
exhorted  me  to  continue  my  own  efforts ;  then,  as 
with  a  prophet's  vision,  she  gazed  into  the  future, 
and  predicted  glorious  things  for  the  cause  she 
loved. 

The  last  interview  I  was  favored  with,  she  was 
suffering  much ;  she  remarked,  in  substance,  that 
it  is  not  enough  to  do  the  will  of  God,  we  must 
also  suffer  it ;  that  the  *'  Captain  of  our  salvation" 
was  made  perfect  through  suffering,  and  that  this 
fiery  process  was  necessary,  to  make  her  meet  for 
the  inheritance  of  the  saints  in  light.    *    *  * 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


n 


To  Mrs.  Prior's  coimsel,  prayers,  and  example, 
I  am  mueh  indebted ;  how  much^  I  can  not  know 
until  disembodied.  In  her  character  there  is  much 
to  admire  and  imitate,  but  it  is  only  the  reflected 
image  of  the  Savior.  She  shone  in  borrowed 
light 

May  we  follow  her  as  she  followed  Christ,  and 
ihare  in  her  glorious  reward. 

Margaret  Dyb. 


New  York,  July,  1843. 

*  •  9  »  •  •  » 

I  AM  happy  to  have  this  opportunity  to  add  my 
simple  testimony  to  the  moral  worth  of  our  dear 
sister  Prior.  From  an  intimate  personal  acquaint- 
ance as  a  fellow  visiter  I  was  led  to  esteem  her 
as  a  devoted  saint  of  whom  the  world  was  not 
worthy.  She  was  constantly  on  the  watch  for 
opportunities  to  benefit  both  the  bodies  and  souls 
of  her  fellow  creatures  ;  and  was  never  discourag- 
ed or  hindered  in  the  work  of  doing  good  by  ap- 
parently unpropitious  circumstances,  but  urged  her 
way  over  every  obstacle  to  the  entire  accomplish- 
mefit  of  her  wishes.  In  her  were  combined  quali- 
ties that  are  rarely  united  in  one  individual. 
Great  energy,  untiring  zeal,  extraordinary  firm- 
ness and  decision,  unshrinking  perseverance,  and 
strong  faith,  were  prominent  traits  in  her  charge- 


72 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


ter.  She  frequently  went  abroad  on  errands  of 
mercy,  when  the  weather  would  have  been 
thought,  by  most,  unfit  for  females"  to  be  out. 
I  remember,  distinctly,  her  calling  on  me  one  cold 
rainy  day  in  December,  after  hanng  been  out  the 
greater  part  of  the  day  engaged  in  her  laborious 
duties.  I  expressed  my  surprise  to  see  her  abroad 
in  such  weather,  but  she  took  my  hand  and  kissing 
me,  replied  in  her  usual  sweet  earnest  way,  "  Sis- 
ter, there's  a  great  work  to  be  done,  and  time  is 
short ;  Jesus  has  been  very  precious  to  m.y  soul 
to-day,  and — 

"  When  I  am  happy  in  him, 
December 's  as  pleasant  as  May." 

She  delighted  much  in  the  character  of  the  Sa- 
Tior,  and  had  a  most  happy  faculty  of  representing 
him  as  pecuUarly  adapted  to  the  necessities  of 
every  sinner.  When  speaking  to  the  impenitent 
of  redeeming,  dying  love,  she  would  frequently 
break  out  singing — 

"  Jesus,  the  name  that  calms  my  fears, 
That  bids  my  sorrows  cease, 
'Tis  music  in  the  sinner's  ears, 

'Tis  life,  and  health,  and  peace." 

Precious  sister,  may  thy  mantle  fall  upon  many 
who  shall  "  Go  and  do  likewise."    *    *    *  * 

M.  I.  Hubbard. 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


73 


Greenbush,  July  28,  1843. 
*****  It  was  my  privilege  for  many 
years  to  enjoy  an  intimate  acquaintance  with  Mrs. 
Prior,  and  between  the  dear  departed  and  myself 
there  existed  a  strong  affection,  hke  that  of  mother 
and  daughter.  I  spent  many  months  in  her  family 
before  and  after  her  widowhood,  and  know,  from 
daily  observation,  that  hers  was  not  a  light  that 
glared  abroad  and  shone  dimly  at  home.  She 
was  the  true  Christian  in  every  relation  which  she 
sustained  as  a  wife,  a  mother,  a  mistress,  and 
friend.  The  question  may  be  asked  by  those  who 
knew  her  in  public — but  not  in  private  life,  "  How 
could  a  woman  so  mMc\\  from  home,  attend  proper- 
ly to  her  duties  at  home  1  I  answer  that  her  prin- 
cipal aim  was  to  live  to  the  glory  of  God,  hence 
her  domestic  arrangements  were  ordered  in  sub- 
serviency to  his  glory.  Unnecessary  visiting,  idle 
gossiping,  undue  attention  to  dress,  and  needless 
^penditure,  formed  no  part  of  her  daily  work. 
With  the  assistance  of  a  servant,  who  was  some- 
times but  a  small  girl,  she  despatched  the  work  of 
the  family  in  the  early  part  of  the  day,  leaving  a 
part  of  each  day  for  works  of  charity  at  home  or 
abroad.  Her  excellent  husband  cordially  co-ope- 
rated with  her  in  all  her  benevolent  efforts,  and 
his  kindness  to  her  was  amply  repaid  by  her 
cheerful  acquiescence  in  all  his  wishes,  the 
neat  and  quiet  order  of  his  house,  and  her  polite 
7 


74 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


and  affectionate  attentions  to  him  at  all  times.  On 
remarking  to  her  one  day  that  few  ladies  thought 
it  necessary  to  meet  their  husbands  at  the  door 
upon  their  return  from  business,  and  place  a  chair 
for  them  as  they  entered  the  room ;  she  answered 
with  a  sweet  smile,  "  I  wish  to  be  an  example  to 
wives.  I  meet  with  many  young  married  women 
in  my  visits,  and  always  inculcate  the  duty  of 
making  their  homes  cheerful  and  pleasant  to  their 
husbands,  so  that  they  will  have  no  excuse  to  seek 
for  happiness  away  from  their  home." 

I  was  much  with  her  when  placed  in  other  cir- 
cumstances. Moving  in  a  house  out  of  town  to 
which  considerable  land  was  attached,  she  was 
kept  for  a  time  from  engaging  in  works  of  active 
benevolence.  Like  Martha,  she  was  "  cumbered 
with  much  serving,"  and  felt  that  she  was  in  dan- 
ger of  becoming  worldly  minded  ;  but  what  could 
she  do  ?  God  had  withdrawn  her  from  the  work 
in  which  she  delighted  and  placed  her  in  a  situa- 
tion, where,  surrounded  with  cares  and  worldly 
influences,  she  must  serve  him  without  the  aid  of 
Christian  society,  and  often,  without  the  enjoyment 
of  sanctuary  privileges.  This  she  deeply  deplored, 
but  it  led  her  to  look  more  within,  to  watch  more 
closely  the  temper  and  spirit  with  which  she  per- 
formed her  daily  duties,  and  taught  her,  in  after 
days,  to  exercise  more  tenderness  and  feel  more 
■ympathy  for  those  who  were  pressed  heavily 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


75 


with  worldly  cares.  In  this  situation  she  also  had 
outward  trials  which  sorely  pressed  her  heart ; 
and  then  her  own  short-comings,  and  proneness  to 
impatience  under  her  Father's  rod,  added  to  her  out- 
ward trials,  led  her  sometimes  to  cry  out  in  anguish 
as  did  David,  Ps.  Ixxxviii.,  "My  soul  is  full  of 
troubles  ,  thou  hast  afflicted  me  with  all  thy  waves. 
Mine  eye  mourneth  by  reason  of  affliction,  Lord, 
I  have  called  daily  upon  thee,  I  have  stretched 
out  my  hands  unto  thee.  Deep  calleth  unto  deep, 
all  thy  waves  and  thy  billows  have  gone  over  me." 
But  heavier  billows  were  in  reserve  for  her.  She 
was  laid  upon  a  bed  of  sickness,  as  also  was  her 
husband.  The  sympathy  they  felt  for  each  other 
retarded  their  recovery.  Both  alternated  between 
life  and  death.  At  last  the  case  was  decided,  Mr. 
Prior's  spirit  returned  to  God  and  our  dear  sister 
was  left  to  toil  a  few  years  longer  in  the  vine- 
yard of  her  Master  ;  to  witness  the  conversion  of 
her  only  son,  to  rear  to  womanhood  the  little  or- 
phan whom  she  had  taken,  and  engage  in  a  new 
object  of  benevolence  for  which  she  seemed  pe- 
culiarly fitted,  and  in  which  her  heart  was  deeply 
interested.  She  was  written  widow,  and  she  felt 
that  it  was  a  name  of  sorrow.  How  sincerely  she 
mourned  the  loss  of  her  best  earthly  friend,  and 
how  deeply  she  felt  that  this  world  was  a  cold 
desolate  place,  was  only  known  to  her  Savior,  and 
the  few  who  knew  the  deep  workings  of  her 


76 


\VALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


widowed  heart.  But  she  spread  her  case  before 
the  mercy-seat,  and  found  God  her  refuge,  a 
very  present  help  in  every  time  of  trouble.  He 
had  led  her  in  six  troubles,  and  in  the  seventh  did 
not  forsake  her ;  but  was  with  her  in  the  dark  and 
cloudy  day,  whispering  to  her  soul,  "  It  is  I,  be  not 
afraid." 

Friends  gathered  around,  to  weep  with  and 
comfort  her,  for  "  she  had  instructed  many,  and 
strengthened  the  weak  hands  ;"  her  words  had  up- 
holden  him  that  was  falling,  and  strengthened  the 
feeble  knees  ;  and  now,  when  her  turn  came,  all 
were  ready  to  sympathize  with  and  sooth  her. 
Her  business  was  soon  settled  to  her  satisfaction, 
and  she  engaged  again  in  the  work  of  benevolence, 
with  a  heart  deadened  to  the  world,  and  a  spirit 
subdued  by  affliction,  resolving  to  be  a  "  widow  in- 
deed ;"  and  such  she  truly  was,  and  continued  to 
be  until  her  death.  May  none  who  read  her  walks 
of  usefulness  feel  discouraged  because  they  can 
not  fully  imitate  her  example !  I  remember  she 
once  remarked  to  a  young  friend  who  expressed  a 
wish  to  walk  in  her  steps,  to  this  effect :  "  It 
would  not  become  you  to  do  my  work.  I  am  an  aged 
person,  my  appearance  is  plain,  my  countenance 
grave  [and  I  may  add,  her  person  commanding  and 
dignified]  ;  I  can  go  through  the  markets  and 
public  places  and  no  one  dare  insult  me ;  whereas, 
your  youthful  appearance  might  provoke  insult. 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


77 


Serve  God,  my  dear,  in  that  sphere  of  life  in  which 
you  are  called  to  move.  Do  the  work  which  the 
Savior  puts  into  your  hands,  in  obedience  to  his 
word  and  the  teachings  of  his  Spirit ;  but  do  not 
feel  that  you  are  called  to  do  the  work  of  others. 
Each  servant  has  his  own  appropriate  work  as- 
signed— see  to  it,  that  you  do  it  well.  Then  you 
may  hope  to  hear  the  welcome  plaudit,  '  Well 
done,  good  and  faithful  servant.'  " 

She  practised  strict  economy,  in  order  that  she 
might  have  more  to  give  the  poor.  I  have  known 
her  to  wear  her  under  garments  patched,  that  she 
might  give  them  her  best  ones,  alleging  as  a  rea- 
son, that  they,  perhaps,  had  nothing  to  patch  with. 

Among  the  numerous  objects  of  benevolence  in 
which  she  was  engaged,  she  was  frequently  brought 
in  contact  with  minds  of  a  high  order.  While  she 
felt  the  spirit  of  her  station,  and  could  act  well  the 
part  assigned  her,  she  could  not  like  them  express 
in  flowing  language  and  correct  diction  the  thoughts 
and  feelings  of  her  heart.  She  was  not  a  polished 
shaft  in  the  Almighty's  quiver,  yet  like  the  woman 
in  the  gospel,  she  did  what  she  could. 

She  loved  all  who  bore  the  image  of  her  Sav- 
ior, irrespective  of  denominational  differences.  A 
beautiful  sentiment  by  a  distinguished  author  of 
the  present  day  expresses  the  views  she  held  up- 
on the  subject  of  Christian  union  :  "  Truth  may 
be  compared  to  the  light  of  the  sun.  The  light 
7* 


78 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


comes  from  heaven  colorless  and  ever  the  same  ; 
and  yet  it  takes  different  hues  on  earth,  varying 
according  to  the  objects  on  which  it  falls.  Thus 
different  formularies  may  sometimes  express  the 
same  Christian  truth,  viewed  under  different  as- 
pects. How  dull  would  be  this  visible  creation 
if  all  its  boundless  variety  of  shape  and  color  were 
to  give  place  to  one  unbroken  uniformity !  How 
melancholy  would  be  its  aspects,  if  all  created 
beings  did  but  compose  a  solitary  and  vast  unity  ! 
The  unity  which  comes  from  Heaven  doubtless 
has  its  place  ;  but  the  diversity  of  human  nature 
has  its  proper  place  also.  In  religion  we  must 
neither  leave  out  God  nor  man.  Without  unity 
your  religion  can  not  be  of  God — without  diversi- 
ty it  can  not  be  the  religion  of  man, — and  it  ought 
to  be  of  hoih.:'— If  Aubigne's  Reformation,  vol.  3, 
book  xi. 

I  might  say  many  things  more  of  our  dear  de- 
parted friend,  to  whom  I  feel  personally  indebted, 
beyond  what  I  have  languaore  to  express  ;  but  my 
letter  is  already  too  long,  and  I  will  close  by  sub- 
joining the  following  lines  written  by  Rev.  Jona? 
King*  : — 

"  Sister,  thou  ha?t  gone  before  us, 
And  thy  saintly  soul  is  flown, 
Where  tears  are  wiped  from  every  eye 
And  sorrow  is  unknown. 


*  Christian  Lyre,  voL  i,  p.  202, 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


From  the  burden  of  the  flesh, 

From  care  and  sin  released, 
Where  the  wicked  cease  from  troubling, 

And  the  weary  are  at  rest. 

*<  The  toilsome  way  thou  'st  travelled  o'er 

And  hast  borne  the  heavy  load ; 
But  Clirist  hath  led  thy  weary  feet 

To  reach  his  blest  abode. 
Thou  'rt  sleeping  now,  like  Lazarus, 

On  his  Father's  faithful  breast, 
Where  the  wicked  cease  from  troubling, 

And  the  weary  are  at  rest. 

**  Sin  can  never  taint  thee  now. 

Nor  can  doubt  thy  faith  assail. 
Nor  thy  meek  trust  in  Jesus  Christ 

And  the  Holy  Spirit  fail. 
And  then  thou  'rt  sure  to  meet  the  good, 

Whom  on  earth  thou  lovedst  best, 
Where  the  wicked  cease  from  troubling. 

And  the  weary  are  at  rest. 

"  And  when  the  Lord  shall  summon  us, 

Whom  thou  hast  left  behind, 
May  we,  untainted  by  the  world, 

As  sure  a  welcome  find  : 
May  each,  like  thee,  depart  in  peace. 

To  be  a  glorious,  happy  guest, 
Where  the  wicked  cease  from  troubling, 

And  the  weary  are  at  rest." 


fours,  with  Christian  regards, 

J.  A. 


80 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS 


Tkrry's  Ville,  July  2S,  1843. 

•  *    *    I  am  happy  to  comply  with 

your  request,  in  giving  my  testimony  in  relation 
to  our  departed  sister  Prior.  She  was  one  of  the 
first  among  the  sisters  interested  in  the  cause  of 
reform  to  aid  and  encourage  my  husband  in  the 
important  work  in  which  he  was  engaged.  He 
ever  found  her  an  able  and  wise  counsellor  in 
times  of  difficulty  and  trial ;  and  believing  that  the 
prayers  of  the  righteous  avail  much,  he  placed 
implicit  confidence  in  hers. 

He  regarded  her  as  an  eminent  servant  of  the 
Lord  ;  and  there  was  abundant  evidence,  that  she 
was  deeply  interested  in  the  work  to  whicn  she 
was  devoted.  During  the  time  of  his  trial  before 
the  Synod,  at  that  important  crisis,  the  midnight 
hour  was  witness  to  her  intercessions  in  his  be- 
half, that  the  Lord  would  sustain  and  comfort  him. 

A  little  incident  in  her  history  just  now  occurs 
to  mind,  which  I  will  mention.  She  one  day 
called  upon  me  and  accompanied  Mr.  McDowall 
and  myself  to  the  museum,  to  see  a  Chinese  lady 
who  was  attracting  considerable  attention  in  the 
city  at  that  time.  While  there  witnessing  the 
applause  and  attention  of  those  who  were  present, 
Mrs.  Prior  was  led  to  address  her  on  the  subject 
of  her  eternal  salvation.  So  affecting  was  her 
appeal  to  her,  that  many  who  were  present  could 
not  refrain  from  weeping.    The  tears  flowed  pro- 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


81 


fusely  from  the  eyes  of  the  interesting  girl  while 
Mrs.  P.  conversed  with  her,  saying,  she  hoped 
her  visit  to  this  country  would  prove  an  invaluable 
blessing  to  her  soul. 

There  are  many  things  of  interest  which  I 
might  relate,  but  they  are  partly  effaced  from  my 
memory,  and  you  will  probably  gather  them  from 
other  sources.    *    *    *  * 

I  sometimes  attended  the  prayer-meeting  to 
which  you  allude,  that  was  so  long  sustained  at 
her  house  on  Bowery  hill,  and  shall  never  forget 
those  precious  seasons.  jMy  last  interview  with 
this  dear  sister  was  one  of  tender  interest.  Being 
on  a  visit  to  New  York,  soon  after  my  arrival  in 
the  city,  I  learned  she  was  considered  dangerous- 
ly  ill — and  having  some  business  of  importance 
with  her,  I  hastened  to  her  residence,  and,  to  my 
surprise,  found  her  apparently  near  her  last 
change  ;  but  her  mind  was  calm,  and  in  a  heav- 
enly frame.  She  felt  that  her  sickness  was  unto 
death,  and  expressed  much  joy  at  my  coming, 
saying,  she  had  much  to  say  to  me.  I  was  desi- 
rous to  see  her,  that  I  might  have  her  advice  con- 
cerning the  publication  of  some  MSS.  She  wished 
me  especially  to  desire  the  dear  sister  who  was 
about  to  prepare  them  for  the  press,  to  "  humble 
self  and  exalt  Christ,^^  and  in  her  usual  faithful- 
ness repeated  this  request  several  times.  During 
the  conversation  she  spoke  of  her  son  with  deep 


82 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


emotion.  I  lis  spiritual  interests  seemed  to  lay 
with  weight  upon  her  heart.  Tears  ran  down  her 
cheeks  as  she  exclaimed,  "  The  Lord  bless  my 
son  r  She  was  aware  that  over-exertion  and  ex- 
posure to  the  cold,  while  laboring  to  save  the 
wretched  and  the  outcast,  had  brought  her  to  this 
bed  of  sickness ;  but  she  rejoiced  that  she  had 
been  laboring  for  her  blessed  Master;  and,  as  was 
said  of  Mary,  may  it  not  be  said  of  her,  "  She 
hath  done  what  she  could"  ?  As  I  was  about 
leaving  her,  she  affectionately  urged  me  to  call 
again  in  the  afterpart  of  the  day,  as  she  might 
tlien  be  able  to  say  more  about  some  dear  friends 
who  had  gone  a  little  before  her,  and  who  she 
believfHl  were  surrounding  the  throne  of  God. 
But  I  saw  her  no  more.  In  about  two  hours  she 
fell  asleep  in  Jesus,  and  went  to  reap  the  blessed 
fruit  of  all  her  toil. 

May  the  Lord  be  with  you,  by  the  special  influ- 
ences of  his  Spirit,  in  preparing  this  little  work. 
I  trust  that  the  memoir  may  prove  a  great  bles- 
sing,— and  although  the  subject  of  it  has  finished 
her  labors  here,  and  gone  to  her  reward,  that  she 
may  through  this  medium  effectually  speak  to  the 
living. 

Yours,  dear  sister,  in  Christian  love, 

Phebe  McDowall. 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


83 


Newark,  August  7,  1843. 

*  *  *  *  Mrs.  Prior  was  one  of  the  few  of 
whom  it  may  be  said  "  the  world  was  made  better 
for  her  having  lived  in  it."  Like  her  compassion- 
ate Savior  she  "  went  about  doing  good  words 
are  powerless  to  set  forth  the  loveliness  of  her 
character  ;  but  her  memory  will  ever  be  enshrined 
in  the  hearts  of  those  whom  she  lived  to  bless. 

Never  shall  I  forget  her  calm,  dignified  manner, 
her  wise  and  maternal  counsels,  her  tender,  yet 
faithful  reproofs.  It  seems  but  yesterday  when, 
to  a  dear  brother  who  had  recently  indulged  hope 
in  Christ,  I  heard  her  say,  in  her  usual  impressive 
tone,  "  Keep  your  soul  full  of  eyes,  young  man, 
keep  your  soul  full  of  eyes.^^ 

As  an  individual  I  honored  her  judgment.  When 
my  heart  has  rebelled  against  the  discipline  of 
Heaven,  and  the  path  of  duty  seemed  dark,  like  an 
angel-guide  she  sought  to  lead  me  where  she  felt 
I  could  most  honor  Christ,  saying,  "  The  Lord 
hath  need  of  thee,"  "  be  faithful  to  his  cause." 

Her  counsel  was  priceless  treasure,  but  since 
her  lips  were  sealed  in  death,  I  have  learned  more 
fully  to  appreciate  her  words  of  love  and  wisdom. 

The  refinement  and  delicacy  that  seemed  in- 
herent in  her  natural  character,  the  good  sense 
ever  manifested  in  the  use  of  words,  and  expres- 
sions chosen  to  indicate  her  views  and  feelings  in 
relation  to  the  cause  of  moral  purity,  recommend- 


84 


WALKS   OF  USKFULNESS. 


ed  both  horself  and  the  cause,  even  to  entire 
strangers,  who  had  before  been  greatly  prejudiced. 
No  one,  however  strong  might  be  their  dislike  to 
the  principles  she  advocated,  could  ever  accuse 
her  of  coarseness  or  vulgarity,  or  regard  her  as 
wanting  in  that  quick  sense  of  propriety  so  neces- 
sary to  usefulness  or  loveliness  in  the  female 
character.  Her  *'  chaste  conversation"  on  all  oc- 
casions, and  in  all  circumstances,  was,  indeed,  a 
most  worthy  example  for  youth  or  age. 

Truly,  efforts  and  counsels,  and  prayers  like 
hers,  are  no  common  blessings.  Happy  indeed 
will  be  her  survivors  who  imbibe  her  spirit,  and 
look  forward  to  a  like  glorious  "  crown  of  rejoi- 
cing." 

May  the  Holy  Spirit  abundantly  bless  the  his- 
tory of  a  life  so  eminently  devoted  to  works  of 
benevolence,  is  the  ardent  desire  of. 

Yours  affectionately, 

Julia  A*  Reed. 

New  York,  Dec.  14,  1843. 
•  •  •  *  My  recollections  of  the  departed 
saint  are  all  pleasant.  From  the  moment  when  I  first 
looked  upon  her  placid  and  benevolent  countenance,  up  to 
the  last  hour  of  earthly  intercourse,  she  was  to  me  a  truly 
maternal  friend.  God,  in  his  wise  providence,  had  just  be- 
fore taken  from  me  a  mother  most  tenderly  beloved,  and 
my  heart  clung  to  Mrs.  Prior  with  an  aflection  that  had  in 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


85 


It  something  of  the  filial  character.  When,  afterward,  I 
saw  her  day  by  day  pursuing  her  noiseless  and  self-denying 
tabors  of  love — when  I  saw  her  humility,  her  faithfulness 
to  the  souls  of  others,  and  her  untiring  benevolence — I  for- 
got selfish  affection,  in  my  admiration  of  what  the  grace 
of  God  could  accomplish  in  and  through  frail  humanity. 

It  has  ahvaj'S  seemed  to  me  a  peculiarly  lovely  feature  in 
Mrs.  Prior's  character,  that  with  all  her  activity  and  strength 
of  purpose,  she  was  so  iruly  feminine.  No  coarseness  was 
mingled  with  her  plainness  of  speech,  no  boisterousness 
with  her  zeal.  Her  feelings,  her  sensibilities,  her  tastes, 
were  all  characterized  by  a  gentleness  and  delicacy  seldom 
surpassed.  Those  who  read  the  records  of  her  heroic  daring 
and  her  unconquerable  energy,  in  these  pages,  may  be  sur- 
prised to  learn  that  she  was  almost  childlike  in  her  love  of 
birds  and  flowers,  and  indeed  of  all  that  is  beautiful  in  na- 
ture or  art.  She  saw  in  these  things  a  promise  and  a  type 
of  that  better  inheritance  reserved  for  the  saints,  and  found 
her  strength  daily  renewed  by  tliis  looking  "  through  Na- 
ture up  to  Nature's  God."  I  have  never,  in  a  somewhat 
extended  sphere  of  obser\-ation,  met  with  any  one  who 
united  so  much  simplicity  and  strength  of  character — so 
much  masculine  courage  and  firmness,  with  womanly  ten- 
derness and  refinement.  Had  she  possessed  early  advan- 
tages of  education  equal  to  those  enjoyed  by  young  ladies 
o(  her  own  rank  at  the  present  day,  I  think  she  would  have 
shone  a  star  of  the  first  magnitude  As  it  was,  there  were 
few  among  her  numerous  acquaintances  who  did  not  feel 
that  they  might  sit  at  her  feet,  and  learn  lessons  of  heavenly 
wisdom  more  valuable  than  all  that  the  schools  can  supply. 

The  punctuality,  neatness,  and  love  of  order,  which  dis- 
tinguished our  friend,  have  been  alluded  to  in  the  Memoir; 
but,  for  the  sake  of  others,  I  wish  to  dwell  a  moment  on 
the  subject  here.   There  are  some  who,  in  many  respects, 


86 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


are  kindred  spirits  with  Mrs.  Prior,  who  think  attention  to 
these  things  incompatible  with  nobler  pursuits,  and  their 
influence  and  usefulness  are  abridged  accordingly.  But 
amid  all  the  labors  and  duties  which  filled  up  her  time 
(and  ft'w  have  lived  more  literally  for  others),  she  always 
found  time  for  scrupulous  attention  to  personal  neatness 
and  propriety  of  appearance,  and  she  always  kept  her  ap- 
pointments. I  have  often  seen  her  wait  patiently  for  others, 
but  in  the  whole  course  of  our  acquaintance  never  knew 
others  to  wait  for  her.  Is  net  this  example  worthy  of 
general  imitation  ? 

If  I  have  forebome  to  speak  particularly  of  the  Christian 
character  of  Mrs.  Prior,  it  is  because  others,  who  wrote 
previously,  have  dwelt  upon  it  at  large ;  and  my  object  is 
simply  to  add  a  few  sketches  to  the  outline  already  drawn. 
It  was  deep  piety  that  made  her  what  she  was  ;  it  was  this 
that  impelled  and  sustained  her  in  her  self-denying  course. 
To  use  her  own  expressive  language,  she  went  out  filled 
with  the  love  of  God,  and  after  pouring  it  out  all  day  in 
her  intercourse  with  others,  she  returned  home  wearied  and 
empty,  until,  by  communion  with  her  Father  in  heaven,  she 
received  fresh  supplies  from  that  exhaustless  fountain,  and 
forgot  both  trials  and  fatigue.  Happy,  happy  spirit !  thou 
hast  rested  from  thy  labors,  and  thy  works  follow  thee. 
We  bless  God  for  the  grace  that  shone  so  conspicuously  in 
thee,  and  in  the  patience  of  faith  would  walk  in  thy  foot- 
steps, until  we  too  are  caUed  to  partake  of  thy  blessedness 
in  our  Father's  house.  S.  T.  Martyn. 

Thk  extracts  from  Mrs.  Prior's  journal,  commenced  on  the  next 
page,  embrace  a  period  of  al)out  five  years,  extending  from  the 
winter  of  1637  to  1842.  Where  dates  are  wanting,  the  omission  is 
chargeable  to  neglect  in  recording  them  at  the  time.  It  is  but  just 
to  say,  that  these  extracts  comprise  less  than  half  the  material  that 

we  have  on  hand,  and  may  only  be  regarded  as  specimens  of  her 

manner  of  laboring,  with  tiie  subsequent  results. 


WALKS  OF   USEFULNESS.  87 


CHAPTER  VI. 

Case  of  a  dying  wife  who  hud  sold  her  soul.— Two  youn? 
women  saved  from  suicide.— Interview  with  a  family  ot 
Jews.— Deserted  wife.— Admonitions  in  a  quilling  room.— 
Hopeful  conversion  of  a  young  lady.— Conversion  of  a 
Catholic— The  end  of  an  actress.— Conversion  of  an  aged 
sinner.— A  rich  poor  disciple.— Life  threatened.— Poor  fami- 
ly relieved.— Deplorable  case  of  intemperance.— Happy 
death.— The  dying  infidel.— Wife  of  Lawyer  F  . — Ill- 
gotten  gain.— Providential  hicident.— Sufferings  of  the  poor 
relieved. 

Case  of  a  dy  ing  -wife. — This  mornmg  a  woman 
whose  character  had  been  suspicions  before  her 
marriage,  was  extre\nely  ill,  and  her  aunt  who 
knew  me  sent  a  request  that  I  would  come  and 
pray  with  her.  Her  husband  was  a  universalist. 
They  had  this  world's  goods,  and  that  was  their 
portion.  I  found  her  very  low  and  in  great  dis- 
tress of  body  and  mind.  She  uttered  again  and 
again,  "  /  can  not  die  !  I  can  not  leave  my  husband 
and  my  babe !"  I  conversed  with  her,  and  was 
proposing  prayer,  when  the  husband  interposed 
and  said,  "  You  need  not  pray  for  her,  she  has  no 
sin  to  answer  for,  and  is  as  fit  to  die  as  you  are." 
Just  then  the  physician  came  in,  and  after  seeing 
her  a  moment,  told  her  frankly,  "  You  can  not  hve 


88  WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 

an  hour."  With  the  greatest  consternation  she 
exchiimed,  If  I  can  not  live  an  hour  I  am  lost ! 
I  have  sold  my  soul  to  the  devil  for  dress  .'  Pray 
for  me  !  Oh,  pray  for  me  !  all  who  can,  do  pray  !" 
While  uttering  these  and  similar  expressions,  the 
chill  of  dissolution  came  over  her — her  counte- 
nance was  changed,  and  her  voice  silenced  in 
death.  Sometime  after  the  breath  had  ceased, 
the  blood  gushed  copiously  from  the  mouth  and 
nose,  and  though  we  knew  this  was  not  uncommon 
in  similar  cases,  yet  it  rendered  the  scene  more 
awfully  impressive.  The  husband  did  not  now 
refuse  us  the  privilege  of  calling  upon  the  name 
of  the  Lord,  and  he  probably  felt  though,  he  did 
not  confess  it,  that  the  hour  of  death  is  full  of  ter- 
ror to  those  without  hope. 

An  unhappy  mother  called  to-day  and  related 
the  afflicting  circumstances  in  which  she  was 
placed,  and  requested  some  aid  in  her  attempts  to 
find  a  poor  lost  daughter.  She  said  she  had  four 
children,  lived  in  a  miserable  basement  in  Church 
street,  and  obtained  bread  for  her  family  by  selling 
small  articles  in  the  market.  Her  eldest  daughter 
was  away,  and  she  had  been  in  the  habit  of  leav- 
ing the  second  girl  (who  was  in  her  fifteenth 
year)  to  look  after  two  young  children,  while  she 
went  out  to  attend  to  her  business.  Some  weeks 
since,  she  came  home  at  night  as  usual,  and  to  her 
surprise  and  grief,  found  this  daughter  raissmg. 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


89 


She  soon  learned  from  the  neighbors  sufRcient  to 
satisfy  her,  that  she  had  been  decoyed  away 
through  the  artifices  of  a  vile  woman  who  lived 
near.  She  had  sought  her  in  different  parts  of 
the  city,  but  as  yet  utterly  in  vain.  She  seem- 
ed to  think  that  in  some  places  to  which  she  had 
been  directed,  the  child  had  been  secreted  and  a 
story  framed  to  deceive  her.  Her  heart  seemed 
agonized  in  view  of  the  condition  of  her  wretched 
lost  one,  and  how  could  it  be  otherwise.  Truly 
this  "  mother's  feelings  could  not  be  conceived, 
but  by  a  mother."  From  her  conversation  one 
would  suppose  that  she  found  some  consolation  in 
God,  in  this  hour  of  darkness. 

If  this  were  a  solitary-  instance  it  would  be 
well,  compared  with  the  case  as  it  is.  'I'wo  poor 
young  creatures  have  been  found  by  the  visiters 
the  last  week,  whose  mothers  are  probably  igno- 
rant of  their  residence  or  the  circumstances  in 

which  they  are  kept. 

******** 

Two  young  women  saved  from  suicide. — As  I 
was  passing  through  my  district  yesterday,  a  lady 
accosted  me  and  inquired  my  name — also,  if  I  was 
connected  with  the  society  who  had  opened  a 
register  of  direction  for  respectable  females.  Some 
one  had  so  Avell  described  my  person  that  she  was 
not  mistaken  in  the  individual  she  sought.  She 
stated  that  two  young  girls,  in  whom  she  felt  much 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


interested,  were  without  emplo}-ment,  in  debt  for 
their  board,  and  so  reduced  to  want  that  they  had 
threatened  to  drown  themselves,  unless  some  relief 
was  afibrded.  They  had  been  working  for  houses 
in  the  southern  trade,  until  the  great  failures,  and 
since  could  get  nothing  to  do  ;  were  boarding  with 
a  widow  who  could  ill  afford  to  keep  them  without 
compensation  ;  and  she  feared  they  might  be  led 
to  some  fatal  step  unless  something  was  done 
for  them  soon.  I  took  the  number  of  their  resi- 
dence, called  on  them,  and  learned  their  true  con- 
dition ;  conversed  wi^h  them  kindly  and  faithfully, 
and  endeavored  to  convince  them  that  they  needed 
a  Savior  to  shield  them  from  impending  woes, 
both  temporal  and  eternal.  Have  to-day  succeeded 
in  placing  them  in  families  where  they  will  be 
under  Christian  influence,  with  the  prospect  of  a 
competent  support.  I  felt  greatly  encouraged  by 
this  and  other  providences,  and  can  truly  say  that 
every  day's  experience  confirms  the  impression, 
that  efforts  for  prevention  promise  more  than  any 
other  ;  and  instead  of  being  lessened  should  be  in- 
creased a  hundred  fold. 

Interview  with  a  family  of  Jews. — Near  S. 
Church  I  was  sent  for,  to  visit  an  aged  but  pious 
woman,  who  had  dislocated  her  hip  by  a  severe 
fall,  and  was  in  consequence  confined  to  her  bed. 
The  daughter,  who  supported  her  mother  by  the 
avails  of  her  industry,  sent  for  me  to  ask  advicQ 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


91 


respecting  the  course  she  should  pursue.  She 
could  not  leave  her  work  to  take  care  of  her  moth- 
er, without  giving  up  the  means  of  obtaining  their 
daily  subsistence,  and  she  was  utterly  unable  to 
hire  a  nurse  to  take  care  of  her.  God  has  more 
than  once  made  me  a  mouth  for  the  poor,  and 
when  I  stated  this  case  to  some  wealthy  families 
in  the  neighborhood,  my  calls  for  relief  were 
promptly  met.  Calling  at  one  stately  edifice  near, 
I  found  it  occupied  by  intelligent  and  benevolent 
Jews.  I  was  conducted  to  an  upper  room  where 
I  found  a  mother,  grandmother,  and  great-grand- 
mother. The  room  was  hung  round  w4th  ancient 
pictures,  according  well  with  the  appearance  of 
its  occupants.  The  Lord  prepared  the  way  for 
me  to  converse  freely  with  them  respecting  Jesus 
Christ  and  his  salvation.  The  old  ladies  entirely 
rejected  me,  and  expressed  themselves  strong  in 
the  faith  of  a  Messiah  yet  to  come  ;  still  they 
treated  me  with  great  politeness.  When  I  left, 
the  younger  lady  accompanied  me  down  stairs  and 
then  stated  that  she  did  not  believe  as  her  friends 
did  ;  that  the  word  of  Jesus  affected  her  much ; 
that  she  often  prayed  to  him  in  her  heart,  and 
longed  for  the  day  to  come  when  she  might  teach 
him  to  her  children,  but  was  not  yet  sufficiently 
strong.  I  left,  with  an  invitation  to  call  again,  and 
much  encouraged  with  the  hope  that  the  redemp- 
tion of  this  ancient  people  of  God  is  drawing  nigh. 


92 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


A  deserted  wife. — May  I4th.  Some  time  since, 

when  visiting  in  street,  I  called  at  a  house 

of  respectable  ajipcarance,  and  as  no  one  came  to 
the  door,  I  opened  it,  and  entered  without  invita- 
tion. The  mistress  of  the  house  was  alone,  and 
confined  to  the  bed  by  disease,  and  anguish  of 
mind.  Struck  with  the  distress  visible  in  her 
countenance,  I  apologized  for  my  abrupt  entrance, 
and  expressed  a  wish  to  converse  with  her  on  the 
concerns  of  her  soul.  She  answered  me,  "  I 
thank  you  for  the  kindness  of  your  intentions,  and 
were  I  less  miserable,  might  wish  to  converse 
with  you,  but  no  one  can  comfort  me.  My  case 
is  beyond  the  reach  of  human  help,  and  I  only 
wish  to  be  left  alone  with  my  sorrows."  After  a 
short  time,  however,  she  became  more  composed, 
and  told  me  the  tale  of  her  domestic  unhappiness ; 
for  the  voice  of  sympathy  was  so  strange  to  her 
that  it  seemed  to  open  her  heart,  and  win  her  en- 
tire confidence.  Her  husband  had  become  a  fre- 
quenter of  the  theatre,  and  kindred  establishments  ; 
and  though  they  were  in  comfortable  circumstan- 
ces, yet  his  life  of  profligacy  drew  so  largely  on 
his  resources,  that  his  wife  and  family  were  often 
in  absolute  want  of  the  necessaries  of  life.  This 
is  by  no  means  an  isolated  fact.  In  my  visits 
through  this  great  city,  cases  similar  to  this  are 
almost  constantly  coming  under  my  notice,  where 
the  husband  and  father,  the  son  or  brother,  has 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


93 


been  led  astray  and  ruined  by  a  fondness  for  the- 
atrical amusements.  Could  the  virtuous  ladies 
who  go  to  the  theatre  see,  at  one  glance,  the  thou- 
sands of  their  sex  who  are  weeping  in  desolate 
places  over  their  blasted  hopes  and  ruined  pros- 
pects, in  consequence  of  this  demoralizing  institu- 
tion, they  would  surely  turn  from  this  gateway  of 
perdition  with  unmingled  horror.  It  is  not  in  the 
heart  of  woman  to  remain  unmoved,  when  she  sees 

the  innocent  suffering  for  the  crimes  of  the  guilty. 
******** 

I  gave  the  poor  invalid  above  alluded  to  all  the 
advice  and  consolation  in  my  power,  and  left  her 
to  the  solitary-  indulgence  of  her  grief.  How  truly 
miserable  is  the  condition  of  those  who  have  not 
the  consolations  of  religion,  when  all  earthly  hopes 
are  thus  taken  from  them! — All  here  is  gloom, 
and  a  still  thicker  darkness  covers  futurity,  so  that 
the  poor  sufferer  can  find  no  ray  of  consolation 
wherever  she  turns  for  relief.  May  the  Star  of 
Bethlehem  arise  on  her  benighted  soul,  and  guide 
it  to  the  haven  where  alone  is  to  be  found  perfect 
rest  and  peace ! 

Admonitions  in  a  quilting-room. — 15^A.  Seven 

months  since,  when  visiting  in  street,  I  found 

in  one  house  ten  or  twelve  young  ladies  seated 
round  a  quilting-frame.  They  were  all  in  the 
bloom  of  youth  and  health,  and  gayly  dressed,  as 
if  for  a  ball.    I  entered  into  conversation  with  the 


94 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


mistress  of  tlio  lioiise,  and  requested  hor  to  take 
the  paper.  She  tolJ  me  she  would  receive  it 
willingly,  but  was  unable  to  read.  The  young 
ladies  seemed  inelined  to  ridicule  all  that  was 
said,  and  considerable  disorder  prevailed  in  the 
room  for  a  few  moments.  I  addressed  them  very 
pointedly,  warned  them  of  the  coming  wrath,  an(' 
pressed  upon  them  the  duty  of  immediate  repent 
ance.  From  the  appearance  of  this  family,  m\ 
suspicions  were  aroused,  and  I  inquired  of  a  neigh 
bor  concerning  their  character.  She  told  me  they 
were  not  absolutely  vicious,  but  given  up  to  vanity 
and  the  pleasures  of  the  world,  and  careless  with 
regard  to  the  company  they  kept.  To-day,  think 
ing  it  desirable  to  go  over  the  scene  of  my  former 
labors,  and  see  if  any  fruit  was  visible,  I  entered 
this  neighborhood  again.  In  one  house,  where  I 
supposed  myself  among  strangers,  I  was  recognised 
by  a  young  girl,  who  expressed  great  pleasure  at 
seeing  me  again.  She  reminded  me  of  the  scene 
around  the  quilting-frame,  and  said  the  remarks, 
then  made,  were  sent  by  the  Spirit  directly  to  hei 
heart.  The  convictions  thus  fastened  upon  her 
mind  never  left  her  until  she  was  brought  to  the 
foot  of  the  cross  as  a  helpless,  undone  sinner.  She 
is  now  a  member  of  the  church,  and  seems  to  be 
an  active,  promising  young  Christian.  What  en- 
couragement does  this  fact  present  to  the  faithful 
exertions  of  tract  visiters,  who  may  by  a  word  in 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


95 


season  save  a  soul  from  death,  and  hide  a  multi- 
tude of  sins.  "  In  the  morning  sow  thy  seed,  and 
in  the  evening  withhold  not  thy  hand,  for  thou 
knowest  not  which  shall  prosper,  this  or  that." 

Conversion  of  a  Catholic.  — 11  th.  Greatly 
strengthened  and  encouraged  by  the  answer  to 
prayer  mentioned  under  my  last  date,  I  went  out, 
not  knowing  whither  the  Lord  would  lead  me. 

In  street,  near  Broadway,  I  found  some  time 

since,  in  a  large  house  where  every  room  was 
occupied  by  a  different  family,  a  very  interesting 
young  female,  whose  little  children  (twins)  were 
both  sick.  She  seemed  willing  to  converse,  and 
told  me  with  tears  that  she  would  pray,  but  was 
unable  to  find  time  to  read  her  prayer-book,  for 
she  was  a  Catholic.  Her  youthful  and  lovely  ap- 
pearance interested  me  deeply,  and  I  inquired  into 
her  former  history.  She  is  a  well-educated  and 
highly  respectable  woman  from  Ireland,  and  hav- 
ing formed  no  acquaintances  among  her  inferior 
neighbors,  she  is  desolate  indeed.  She  said  she 
was  reaping  the  bitter  fruits  of  disobedience  to 
parents,  as  she  had  married  a  young  man  who 
lived  in  her  father's  family,  and  fled  with  him  to 
this  country.  He  could  now  get  very  little  em- 
ployment, and  they  were  suffering  for  the  neces- 
saries of  life.  I  spent  several  hours  with  her,  and 
begged  of  her  to  repent,  and  humble  herself  before 
God,  and  her  parents,  as  that  sin  seemed  to  lie  so 


96 


WALKS   OF  USKFULXESS, 


heavy  on  her  heart ;  assuring  her  that  God  would 
teach  lier  to  pray  without  a  prayer-book,  if  she 
would  look  to  him  for  direction  and  assistance. 
Since  that  time  I  have  visited  her  repeatedly,  and 
have  been  enabled  to  be  of  some  service  to  her  in 
her  poverty  and  affliction.  To-day  she  met  me 
whh  a  cheerful,  happy  countenance,  and  told  me 
what  the  Lord  had  done  for  her  soul.  "  He  has 
taught  me  to  pray  without  my  book,  and  I  can  now 
have  comfort  all  the  time,  even  when  my  hands 
are  occupied  with  my  sick  children.  I  now  feel 
the  justice  of  all  I  have  suffered,  and  am  willing 
to  humble  myself  before  my  offended  parents,  and 
submit  entirely  to  their  will."  I  requested  her  to 
write  immediately  to  her  parents,  and  state  her 
situation  without  reserve,  and  promised  to  unite 
with  her  in  pleading  at  the  throne  of  grace  for  a 
favorable  answer  to  her  petition  to  be  received 
again  by  them  as  a  child.  When  I  left  her,  my 
heart  was  raised  to  God  in  devout  thanksgiving, 
that  the  bread  thus  cast  on  the  waters,  had  been 
found  before  "  many  days."  Let  no  Christian 
despise  the  day  of  small  things.  To  the  eye  of 
sense,  the  daily  visits  of  a  few  weak  females, 
seems  a  feeble  instrumentality  to  move  on  such  a 
mass  of  sin  and  corruption  as  this  city  presents  ; 
but  if  angels  rejoice  over  one  sinner  that  repents, 
there  is  much  to  excite  our  gratitude  and  joy  in 
the  results  of  this  system  of  visitation.  The  Lord 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


97 


alone  hath  done  it ;  to  his  holy  name  be  all  the 
glory ! 

The  end  of  an  actress. — 

"  The  Theatre  was  from  tlie  very  first 
The  favorite  haunt  of  sin  ;  the'  honest  men, 
Some  very  honest,  wise,  and  worthy  mt;n, 
Maintained  it  might  be  turned  to  good  account  ; 
And  so  perhaps  it  might ;  but  never  was. 
From  first  to  last  it  was  an  evil  place."  — Polloic. 

June  Ibth.  iVs  I  was  conversing  with  a  woman 

on  the  second  floor  of  a  dwelling  in  street, 

this  morning,  my  attention  was  attracted  by  a 
sound  of  distress,  that  seemed  to  issue  from  the 
room  below.  I  was  informed  that  it  had  been 
heard  at  intervals  for  several  days,  but  that  the 
door  had  been  closed  upon  all  who  attempted  to 
enter.  I  descended  the  steps,  and  desired  admis- 
sion, but  was  refused.  I  then  demanded  it,  say- 
ing in  a  decided  tone,  if  it  was  not  granted,  I 
would  go  immediately  to  a  magistrate,  whose  duty 
it  would  be  to  open  the  door  without  permission, 
for  I  had  heard  groans  that  assured  me  there  was 
distress  within. 

Presently  the  door  was  opened,  and  I  entered 
an  empty,  desolate  looking  room,  and  saw  before 
me  the  wreck  of  what  had  once  been  an  intelli- 
gent and  beautiful  woman.  After  speaking  kindly 
to  her,  I  ascertained  that  her  sister  was  very  ill  in 
an  adjoining  apartment,  and  was  permitted  to  see 
her.  I  found  her  on  a  pallet  of  straw,  on  the 
9 


38 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


floor  of  a  cold,  dark,  filthy  room,  very  ill  indeed, 
and "  apparently  near  to  death.  Intense  suffering 
caused  the  groans  we  had  heard.  She  was  ra- 
tional, and  seemed  grateful  that  I  had  found  her. 
There  was  not  a  chair  in  the  room,  but  I  bent 
over  her  low  couch,  and  talked  to  her  of  the  love 
of  Jesus,  and  her  poor  soul.  She  appeared  like  a 
convicted  sinner,  and  desired  earnestly  that  1 
would  pray  with  her ;  and  if  ever  the  Spirit  helped 
my  infirmities,  it  was  at  this  hour.  The  veil 
seemed  removed  that  hides  Eternity  from  the  eye 
of  the  mind :  I  viewed  the  poor  dust  before  me  as 
"the  food  of  worms,"  but  the  spirit!  O  the  iindy- 
ing  spirit !  and  the  deeds  of  a  life  now  almost 
over,  would  fix  the  impress  upon  its  eternal  desti- 
ny. The  importance  of  livin<{,  and  of  dying — how 
it  looks  when  life  is  waning,  and  the  taper  just 
about  to  expire 

I  learned  before  leaving  this  poor  sufferer,  that 
the  sister  who  refused  to  let  me  in,  was  a  violent 
opposer  to  religion.  She  had  seen  worldly  good, 
but  it  had  vanished  ;  and  her  extreme  poverty  was 
so  mortifying  to  her  pride,  that  she  allowed  no  one 
to  enter  her  doors.  She  had  been  a  noted  actress^ 
and  the  theatre  had  proved  her  ruin.  What  a  pic- 
ture was  here  presented  of  the  tendency  of  theatri- 
cal amusements  !  I  left,  promising,  in  compliance 
with  her  request,  to  call  again. 

Conversion  of  an  aged  sinner. —  16th.  In  one  of 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


99 


my  visiting  excursions  four  months  since,  I  met 
with  a  very  aged  sinner,  who  was  both  naturally 
md  spiritually  blind.  Her  friends  and  children 
were  all  Universalists.  I  conversed  and  prayed 
with  her — and  read  to  her  from  the  word  of  the 
Lord,  "  Except  a  man  be  born  again,  he  can  not 
>ee  the  kingdom  of  God."  This  declaration  of 
Christ  was  accompanied  by  the  convicting  energy 
of  the  Holy  Spirit,  and  fastened  upon  her  con- 
science till  it  robbed  her  of  her  rest,  and  she  be- 
gan to  seek  in  earnest  for  the  pearl  of  great  price. 

I  visited  her  many  times,  and  found  her  week 
after  week,  much  affected  in  view  of  her  sins,  but 
unwilling  to  believe  the  precious  truth,  "  He  is 
able  to  save  to  the  uttermost,  all  who  come  unto 
God  by  Him." 

To-day  have  had  the  inexpressible  pleasure  of 
finding  her  clothed  and  in  her  right  mind,  sitting 
at  the  feet  of  Jesus.  Bless  the  Lord,  O  my  soul, 
and  all  that  is  within  me,  praise  his  Holy  name. 
I  do  indeed  feel,  that  it  is  an  unspeakable  privi- 
lege to  be  made  a  servant  of  souls.  My  faith  and 
hope  in  God  are  strong  and  unwavering.  "  Veri- 
ly He  will  rejoice  the  soul  of  his  servant,  and  none 
that  trust  in  him  shall  be  desolate." 

A  rich  poor  disciple. — 17 th.  To-day  have  met 

with  an  interesting  family  in  B  street,  two  of 

whom  have  been  recently  converted  to  God.  The 
circumstances  of  their  case  were  very  peculiar. 


100 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


Their  simple  story  is  briefly  this.  The  times 
were  bad,  and  they  felt  unable  to  pay  the  rent  of 
all  their  rooms,  and  let  one  of  them  to  a  poor  wo- 
man whose  husband  was  in  the  country'.  They 
did  not  know  how  very  poor  she  was,  nor  that  she 
was  a  Christian.  She  had  not  been  with  them 
long,  before  at  stated  times  every  day,  they  heard 
her  voice  as  if  in  prayer  to  God.  This  annoyed 
them  so  much,  that  they  wished,  most  heartily, 
that  she  was  out  of  their  house.  One  night,  hear- 
ing her  voice  as  usual,  they  listened  at  her  door, 
and  heard  her  praying  the  Lord  to  quiet  her  hun- 
gry childrcji  (they  were  crying  for  bread,  and  she 
had  none  to  give  tliem) ; — and  presently  again  they 
heard  her  praising  the  Lord,  for  his  mercy,  that 
her  little  ones  had  forgotten  their  troubles,  and 
were  quietly  asleep. 

This  was  loud  preaching  to  them,  and  the  con- 
viction of  her  sincerity  forced  itself  upon  them, 
also  the  reality  of  that  religion  they  had  so  much 
despised. 

The  result  was,  they  were  brought  to  repent 
ance,  and  led  to  exercise  faith  in  a  risen  Savior. 
They  now  unite  in  thanking  the  Lord  that  this 
good  woman  ever  came  under  their  roof.  Soon 
after  the  change  in  their  feelings,  they  sought  an 
acquaintance  with  her,  assisted  in  supplying  her 
wants,  and  consider  themselves  repaid  four-fold 
for  their  charities,  by  the  Christian  intercourse 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


101 


thus  enjoyed.  In  hearing  this  relation,  I  could 
not  help  feeling,  that  if  the  professors  of  religion 
in  our  city  would  but  manifest  the  consistency, 
and  exercise  the  faith,  of  this  poor  humble  disci- 
ple, our  Redeemer  would  be  honored,  and  heaven 
filled  with  new  themes  of  praise,  by  the  conver- 
sion of  multitudes  around  us. 

Nov.  20th.  Visited  the  sick  woman  referred  to 
under  date  of  Nov.  15th.  Found  her  near  to  death, 
and  gained  some  satisfaction  with  reference  to  her 
hopes  beyond  the  grave.  She  had  felt  at  times 
for  a  day  or  two,  willing  to  die,  and  then  again  as 
her  sins  appeared  in  dread  array,  there  was  an 
awful  fear  of  standing  at  the  bar  of  a  holy  God. 

Before  her  departure,  however,  she  seemed  to 
cast  herself  upon  the  Savior,  and  expressed  a 
desire  to  depart,  that  she  might  see  him  as  he  is, 
Her  end  was  peaceful,  and  the  hope  is  cherished 
that  prayer  was  heard  in  her  behalf. 

Some  weeks  since,  as  I  was  visiting  in  one  of 
my  districts  in  the  upper  part  of  the  city,  I  was 
led  to  speak  plainly  and  faithfully  to  a  man  who 
had  a  family,  but  was  known  to  be  keeping  a  mis- 
tress at  the  same  time.  My  age  made  me  feel 
that  as  he  was  thrown  in  my  way,  there  was  no 
impropriety  in  attempting  to  set  his  sin  before  him. 
But  it  provoked  his  anger  and  he  repeatedly 
threatened  my  life.  I  have  since  avoided  the 
vicinity  of  his  residence,  until  this  morning.  I 
9* 


102 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


received  a  note  requesting  me  to  call  immediately 
to  see  a  sick  man  who  was  not  expected  to  live. 
I  saw  by  the  No.  that  it  was  very  near  the  house 

of  Mr.  .    My  courage  was  rather  weak,  for 

the  request  was  so  unusual,  that  I  feared  lest  a 
plot  had  been  laid  to  ensnare  me.  After  com- 
mending the  case  to  God,  I  went  as  requested, 
and  was  glad  to  learn  that  my  fears  had  been 
groundless. 

I  found  a  man  and  his  wife  in  great  distress,  in 
the  attic  of  the  house  to  which  I  had  been  direct- 
ed. The  husband  had  been  given  over  by 
his  physicians,  and  he  felt  that  his  preparation 
for  death  had  not  been  begun.  "0!"  said  he, 
''pray  for  me  !  I  can  not  die,  /  am  not  fit  to  die  /" 
The  agony  of  his  mind,  and  the  distress  of  his 
poor  wife  made  the  scene  truly  affecting. 

A  brand  plucked  from  the  burning. — 29tli.  Met 
with  a  woman  who  informed  me  that  the  departed 
McDowall  had  been  the  means  of  her  temporal 
and  eternal  salvation.  She  spoke  of  him  with 
much  emotion,  and  after  some  hesitation,  proceed- 
ed to  tell  me  something  of  her  history.  She  stated 
that  she  was  on  the  point  of  establishing  a  house 
of  ill-fame,  when,  most  providentially,  she  heard 
him  preach  on  the  seventh  commandment.  The 
sermon  was  to  her  as  "  a  nail  in  a  sure  place." 
She  immediately  abandoned  he<-  purpose,  and  has 
since  sought  an  honest  living,  by  honest  means. 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


103 


She  liow  keeps  a  respectable  boarding-house,  is  a 
reguUr  subscriber  to  the  Advocate,  and  appears  to 
feci  bound  by  ten  thousand  obligations  to  do  all 
iD  her  power  for  the  advancement  of  moral  purity. 

A  few  doors  from  this  I  entered  a  dwelling,  and 
found  a  number  of  sailors  sitting  together,  appa- 
rently unoccupied.  I  gave  to  each  of  them  a 
tract,  and  conversed  with  them  about  their  soul's 
salvation.  One  of  ihem  said  to  his  companions, 
"  Be  quiet,  that  I  ff.fty  hear  all  this  lady  says,  she 
puts  me  so  in  mind  of  my  dear  mother."  "  Then 
y^ou  had  a  praying  mother,  had  you  ?"  "  Yes," 
he  replied,  and  his  heart  was  touched  to  tender- 
ness. 

I  learned  from  him  that  he  attended  the  Mari- 
>iers'  church.  At  his  request  I  gave  him  some 
copies  of  the  Advocate  to  read. 

Dec.  blh.  Found  to-day  an  afflicted  woman 
^whose  husband  was  daily  spending  his  small  earn- 
ings at  a  porter-house,  while  he  knew  that  she 
was  suffering  for  the  necessaries  of  life.  Not- 
withstanding this  severe  trial,  she  seemed  to  pos- 
sess "  a  calm  and  heavenly  frame."  She  informed 
me  that  her  extreme  poverty  had  driven  her  to 
Christ — said,  his  presence  and  his  word  afforded 
a  consolation  and  blessedness,  such  as  the  world 
could  neither  give  nor  take  away. 

Poor  family  relieved. — 1th.  The  Lord  has  en- 
abled me  this  day  to  administer  again  to  the  wants 


101  WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 

of  the  wretched,  and  my  soul  bears  witness  to  the 
truth  of  his  own  precious  words,  "  It  is  more 
blessed  to  give  than  to  receive."    One  object  of  our 

charities  was  a  family  residing  in  street. 

They  were  found  in  a  dark  basement.  The  sick 
mother,  with  an  infant,  was  lying  in  a  miserable 
crib,  without  necessary  bedding,  and  several  small 
children  were  supplying  a  half  worn  out  sheet- 
iron  stove  with  shavings,  which  v  as  all  the  fuel 
their  means  aflordod.  The  husband  and  father 
had  been  removed  by  death  a  few  days  since 
When  I  endeavored  to  express  the  sympathy  that 
was  awakened  in  view  of  their  suffering  condition, 
the  poor  woman  seemed  much  affected,  and  said 
she  considered  her  afflictions  but  the  fruit  of  her 
disobedience.  She  had  been  tenderly  brought  up, 
and  from  her  youth  had  realized  the  necessity  of 
a  change  of  heart,  but  had  resisted  the  strivings 
of  the  spirit  till  now.  I  read  to  her  from  the 
word  of  the  Lord,  "  They  that  seek  shall  find," 
&c.  After  directing  her  attention  to  the  friend  of 
sinners,  I  went  to  a  benevolent  lady  living  near, 
and  informed  her  of  the  situation  of  this  mother 
and  children.  She  very  kindly  returned  with  me, 
and  supplied  their  present  wants  liberally  from  her 
own  purse.  If  all  to  whom  the  Lord  has  given 
an  abundance,  would  follow  the  example  of  this 
good  woman,  how  many  in  our  city  would  rise  up 
and  call  them  blessed. 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


105 


Deplorable  case. — \4th.  I  was  invited  by  a 
Christian  friend  to  call  on  a  woman  who  was 
literally  drinking  herself  to  death.  I  went  as  re- 
quested, and  found  the  scene  too  painful  to  de- 
scribe. A  fellow-being  and  a  woman  was  before 
us,  upon  her  bed,  with  a  pitcher  of  brandy  by  her 
side,  and  three  or  four  drunken  companions  around 
her.  All  were  so  intoxicated  that  expostulation 
was  useless.  In  passing  out,  we  saw  the  man  at 
"  the  bar"  dealing  out  his  "  distilled  death"  to 
customers,  and  inquired  of  him  if  the  woman  with- 
in was  his  wife  ?  "  Yes,"  he  said.  "  And,  do  you 
know,"  I  inquired,  "  that  she  is  supplied  with. 
liquor  by  the  pint  ?"  "  Yes."  "  Do  you  mean  to 
kill  her  ?"  "  She  will  have  it,"  was  the  reply, 
*'  or  scream  so  that  it  takes  three  or  four  to  hold 
her."  "  But  you  could  send  her  to  the  asylum, 
and  must  do  so,  or  it  will  be  my  duty  to  complain 
of  you."  He  bid  me  mind  my  business,  which  I 
assured  him  I  should  do,  as  that  would  be  my  busi- 
ness if  he  persisted. 

Happy  death. — I8th.  Another  trophy  of  the 
mercy  of  the  Lord  may  h%  recorded  this  day. 
I  was  invited,  some  time  since,  to  visit  a  yoimg 
girl  in  feeble  health,  whose  mother  was  im- 
penitent. The  state  of  her  mind  was  interest- 
ing. She  desired  prayer,  and  was  grateful  for 
religious  instructior.  I  went  once  again,  and 
presently  found  her  a  subject  of  pungent  conviction. 


106 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


A  lew  days  after,  she  was  rejoicing  in  the  love 
of  Christ,  and  the  change  was  indeed  glorious. 
She  sent  for  her  young  companions,  prayed  with 
and  for  them,  and  exhorted  them  earnestly  not  to 
defer  repentance.  She  has  to-day  put  on  immor- 
tality, and  we  trust  death  is  swallowed  up  in  vic- 
tory. She  prayed  for  our  society  with  her  dying 
breath,  giving  thanks  to  the  dear  Savior  for  making 
the  unworthy  visiter  the  means  of  her  conversion. 
To  his  name  alone  be  praise.  The  mother  appears 
deeply  anxious  about  her  own  salvation,  and 
seems  to  be  just  upon  the  point  of  submitting  her 
heart  to  God. 

The  dying  infidel— Jan.  \Qth,  1838.  Was  in- 
vited by  a  lady  to  call  on  a  family  who  kept  a 
porter-house  near  Waverley  Place.  As  she  was 
young,  she  desired  some  one  of  my  age  to  go  to 
this  place  rather  than  herself.  A  father  and  son 
were  there,  verj'  ill,  and  near  to  death.  I  obtain- 
ed permission  to  see  them,  and  found  the  son  an 
infidel.  I  drew  a  chair  near  his  bed-side,  and 
tried  to  talk  to  him  ^about  salvation.  He  looked 
wildly,  and  said  in  an  angry  tone,  "  If  I  could  reach 
my  cane,  I  would  put  you  down  stairs."  "  He  did 
not  want  any  preaching,"  as  he  called  it.  "  When 
he  wanted  preaching,  he  went  to  Tammany  Hall.** 
The  name  of  God  or  Christ  seemed  to  fill  him 
with  rage.  It  is  the  opinion  of  his  physician  that 
he  can  not  live.    I  left  him  and  entered  the  ad- 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


107 


joining  room,  where  his  poor  father  was  confined 
with  consumption,  apparently  in  the  last  stage. 
My  feelings  had  so  overpowered  me  that  I  could 
not  speak  for  weeping.  I  made  some  apology  to 
the  sick  man,  saying  "  The  infidelity  of  your  son 
has  quite  overcome  me  and  added,  that  "  it  was 
astonishing  that  one  so  young  could  be  thus  in- 
fluenced by  such  principles."  The  father  was 
afiected,  and  blamed  himself,  as  well  he  might, 
for  the  sin  of  his  child  ;  confessed  that  he  had 
led  him  in  the  way  to  death,  and  said  "  he  was 
distressed  about  his  own  soul,  but  God  was  afar 
off."  After  a  season  of  prayer,  I  left  him  with  a 
heavy  heart,  fearing  I  should  see  him  and  the  un- 
happy son  on  the  left  hand  of  the  Judge.  The 
wife  and  mother  was  engaged  in  supplying  cus- 
tomers at  the  bar  ;  she  did  it,  as  she  said,  for  a  liv- 
ing. I  expostulated  with  her,  but  to  little  purpose. 
Wife  of  Lawyer  F  ; 

*      *      *      *      "  And  sorrow  oft 
By  man  inflicted  on  his  brother  man ; 
Sorrow  that  made  tlie  reason  drunk,  and  yet 
Left  much  untasted — so  the  cup  was  filled  ; 
Sorrow  that,  like  an  ocean,  dark,  deep,  rough, 
And  shoreless,  roUed  its  billows  o'er  the  soul 
Perpetually,  and  without  hope  of  end."— Pollok. 

24th.  Met  with  a  subscriber  in  13th  street,  whose 
heart  is  much  enlisted  in  the  cause  of  reform.  She 
invited  me  to  a  room,  on  the  second  floor,  and  in- 
troduced me  to  a  sick  lady,  as  one  of  the  visiting 
committee  of  the  F.  M.  R.  Society.    She  was 


108 


WALKS   OF  USEFUr.N'ESS. 


young,  of  a  lovely  countenance,  and  very  diffident 
and  retiring  in  her  manner  ;  was  in  a  decline,  and 
her  symptoms  foreboded  a  speedy  dissolution. 
Her  mind  appeared  tender ;  she  wept  as  I  spoke 
of  a  dying  hour,  and  confessed  that  she  was  un- 
prepared. She  seemed  grateful  for  my  call,  and 
desired  me  to  come  again.  The  lady  of  the 
house,  with  whom  she  boarded,  made  me  ac- 
quainted with  the  peculiar  circumstances  of  her 
case,  which  are  briefly  these :  She  called  at  her 

house  with  her  husband,  Lawyer  F  ,  about 

six  months  since,  and  requested  board.  They 
wished  to  board  in  a  private  family,  and  as  their 

appearance  was  respectable,  Mrs,  consented 

to  receive  them.  The  health  of  the  lady  was 
then  good,  and  if  the  canker  was  corroding  at  the 
heart,  it  was  buried  so  deep  as  not  to  be  perceived. 
She  occasionally  observed  with  solicitude,  her 
husband  had  very  little  business.  Some  time 
since,  it  was  ascertained  that  his  evenings  were 
spent  in  gambling  and  other  scenes  of  dissipation. 
The  wife  sufiered  in  silence.  Her  external  wants 
were  well  supplied  ;  her  rooms  furnished  in  good 
taste,  and  a  stranger  would  not  have  selected  her 
as  one  among  the  children  of  affliction.  The 
family  with  whom  they  boarded  had  an  oppor 
tunity  to  witness,  from  day  to  day,  the  cause  of 
her  grief  and  her  malady.  She  had  never 
spoken  of  her  unfaithful  husband  but  in  terms  of 


WALKS  OF   USEFULNKSS.  109 

tenderness  and  affection.  This  he  well  knew ; 
but  he  had  become  wedded  to  the  gainbling-room 
and  the  theatre,  and  every  better  feeling  of  his 
heart  was  so  perverted  that  he  could  see  the 
worthy  companion  of  his  youth  wasting  away  by 
fell  disease,  and,  knowing  that  his  conduct  was 
the  fatal  cause,  pass  on  apparently  without  com- 
punction or  remorse.  The  lady  remarked  that  he 
had  paid  his  board  bill  regularly,  but  she  would  not 
have  such  a  monster  in  her  house  were  it  not  for 
his  sick  wife,  who  was  too  ill  to  be  removed. 

Since  Mrs.  F  had  been  under  the  care  of  a 

physiciftn,  he  had  gone  by  request  to  the  druggist's 
for  medicine,  and  instead  of  returning  to  adminis- 
ter it,  had  made  his  way  to  the  theatre,  and  spent 
ihe  evening,  till  the  midnight  hour,  in  sin  and  fol- 
ly. This  unhappy  woman  is  hastening  to  an  early 
grave  without  hope.  Her  friends  in  the  countrj' 
are  not  apprized  of  her  condition ;  they  suppose 
her  husband  is  ail  to  her  which  his  voluntary  and 
most  sacred  obligations  require,  and  could  they 
know  his  perfidy,  parental  and  fraternal  love 
would  wrest  this  daughter  from  his  hands,  if  it 
were  not  too  late  to  save  her.  Should  this  page 
meet  his  eye,  may  it  awaken  reflection,  and  lead 
a  guilty  conscience  to  perform  its  office.    Let  the 

many  who,  like  Mr.  F  ,  sustain  the  relation  of 

husband,  and  yet  in  heart  and  life,  are  traitors  to 
their  solemn  vows,  remember  there  is  a  day  at 
10 


110 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


hand  that  will  strike  terror  to  their  inmost  souls. 
He  who  is  their  lawgiver  and  judge  will  repay  rec- 
ompense. Here  the  oppressor  may  be  shielded 
by  human  institutions,  and  the  oppiessed  find  none 
to  redress  their  wrongs  ;  but  there  the  tables  will 
be  turned,  and  the  responsibility  of  all  the  social 
relations  will  be  iully  appreciated. 

Feb.  22(1.  Have  spent  most  of  this  day  in  re- 
porting the  cases  of  the  suffering  poor  to  the  ward 
committees,  whose  duty  it  is  to  provide  for  their 
relief.  As  the  funds  arc  becoming  diminished, 
many  applicants  are  unheeded,  unless  some  friend 
makes  known  their  case  for  them.  Indeed,  the 
provision  that  has  been  made,  does  not  begin  to 
meet  the  wants  of  the  destitute  in  several  of  the 
wards,  and  is  but  a  mere  apology  for  present  re- 
lief. One  aged  and  deserving  woman  informed 
me  that  she  had  stood  from  9  till  12  o'clock,  wait- 
ing by  the  door,  in  the  cold,  for  the  crowd  to  dis- 
perse, in  order  that  she  might  obtain  her  allow- 
ance of  potatoes,  and  was  then  obliged  to  go  away 
empty.  She  was  destitute  of  fuel  and  food,  and 
ready  to  fold  her  hands  in  despair.  The  unex- 
pected relief  which  the  Lord  enabled  me  to  pro- 
cure, changed  her  tears  of  anguish  to  those  of  joy 
and  gratitude.  The  case  of  this  helpless  widow  is 
admilar  in  kind  to  that  of  thousands.  Employment 

not  now  to  be  had,  even  for  those  who  have 
ever  before  been  able  to  obtain  an  honest  living — 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


Ill 


and  where  Christian  principle  is  wanting,  and 
children  are  to  be  supported,  many  are  left  to  com- 
ply with  temptations,  from  which,  in  other  circum- 
stances, they  would  have  shrunk  with  horror. 

Ill-gotten  gain. — 24M.  In  Fourteenth  street  was 
made  acquainted  with  the  situation  of  a  mother, 
who,  with  an  infant  and  several  little  ones,  was  in 
feeble  health,  and  suffering  from  want.  After  the 
usual  civilities  were  exchanged,  she  inquired  with 
earnestness  if  I  knew  her,  and  gave  her  name. 
I  remembered  her  well — had  known  her  in  better 
days.  Her  father  was  wealthy,  but  had  acquired 
his  property  by  vending  ardent  spirits.  He  gave 
this  daughter  a  handsome  sum  at  her  marriage. 
Her  husband  engaged  in  business,  but  failed — 
could  not  rise  again,  and  became  disheartened. 
He  had  no  religion,  and  sought  an  antidote  for  his 
troubles  in  the  porter-hovses  of  the  neighborhood. 
The  remainder  of  his  story,  and  that  of  his  help- 
less family,  can  be  easily  anticipated.  During  the 
winter  this  afflicted  woman  has  been  reduced  to 
such  straits,  that  she  has  been  obliged  to  disguise 
herself  as  a  common  beggar,  and  go  to  respectable 
families  and  solicit  bread  for  her  starving  children. 
Her  poverty  had  led  her  to  seek  for  durable  riches 
and  righteousness.  She  was  perusing  her  Bible 
with  interest,  and  earnestly  inquiring  the  way  of 
salvation,  but  was  not  a  child  of  the  covenant,  and 
had  never  heard  the  voice  of  prayer  within  hei 


112  WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 

father's  doors.  She  remarked  with  tears,  "  the 
curse  is  not  removed,"  "  iniquities  are  visited,'^ 
&c.  (referring  to  the  ill-gotten  gain  of  her  father, 
and  the  use  that  had  been  made  of  it  by  her  in- 
temperate husband).  My  visit  here  was  cruly 
providential,  and  by  calling  on  some  distant  rela- 
tives of  the  family,  and  stating  their  wants,  assist- 
ance was  immediately  obtained. 

ProvidcnLial  incident. — 
"  Whence  learned  she  this?   O  she  was  innocent— 
And  to  be  innocent  is  Nature's  wisdom  : 
The  Hedged  dove  knows  the  prowlers  of  the  air, 
Feared  soon  as  seen,  and  flutters  back  to  shelter. 
"  0,  surer  than  suspicion's  hundred  eyes 
Is  that  fine  sense  wiiich  to  the  pure  in  heart 
By  mere  opugnancy  of  their  own  goodness 
Reveals  the  approach  of  evil." — Coleridge. 

2bth.  I  was  led  to  visit  some  eight  or  ten  fami- 
lies in  the  east  {)ari  of  the  city,  residing  in  the 
vicinity  of  the  late  fire.  I  inquired  respecting  the 
condition  of  the  hundreds  whose  homes  were 
burned  up,  and  where  they  lived  ?  In  one  place, 
was  informed  that  a  woman  and  child,  who  had 
lost  all,  were  in  a  room  above,  but  as  she  kept 
closed  doors,  I  probably  could  not  see  her.  Sup- 
posing I  should  not  be  refused,  I  went  to  her  door, 
and  after  several  raps,  by  saying  in  a  raised  tone, 
"  an  old  lady  who  is  a  friend  wishes  to  come  in,'* 
I  was  admitted.  She  appeared  diffident  and  agi- 
tated, but  gave  me  a  seat,  and  soon  became  com- 
posed. I  spoke  kindly  of  her  losses,  and  inquired 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS.  113 

for  her  husband.  At  this  she  began  to  weep,  and 
said,  that  previous  to  the  fire  he  went  west  to  pur- 
chase lands,  and  had  not  yet  returned.  They  were 
housekeeping,  and  she  was  left  in  the  care  of  an 
old  gentleman  and  lady  under  the  same  roof,  who 
were  very  kind  to  her,  until  their  mutual  misfor- 
tunes had  made  them  homeless. 

In  the  midst  of  the  calamity,  while  the  flames 
were  raging,  and  she  was  standing  with  her  little 
one,  not  knowing  where  to  go,  a  woman,  whose 
appearance  was  respectable,  came  to  her,  and  in- 
vited her  to  her  house.  She  accompanied  her, 
and  was  provided  with  a  room,  and  requested  to 
stay  till  her  husband's  return.  The  offer  was  con- 
sidered generous,  and  accepted ;  but  she  was  very 
soon  insulted,  and  had  reason  to  suppose  that  the 
house,  or  the  people  in  it,  were  of  a  character 
which  she  had  not  at  first  suspected.  A  man  had 
been  at  the  door  of  her  room  several  times,  and 
offered  her  money.  She  resented  his  baseness, 
and  kept  the  door  locked  against  him,  but  was 
trembling  with  fear  at  the  approach  of  every  foot- 
step. I  inquired  if  she  would  like  to  leave,  if  I 
could  get  her  a  place  to  board,  with  some  good 

family.    She  said  modestly,  "  If  I  knew  you"  

"  but  you  too  are  a  stranger."  I  satisfied  her  with- 
out difficulty  as  to  that,  and  was  enabled  to  encour- 
age her  to  put  her  trust  in  the  Lord,  and  look  to 
him  for  aid.  I  succeeded  in  procuring  her  a 
10* 


114 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


pleasant  boarding-place  with  a  sister  in  the  church, 
and  saw  her  removed  without  delay.  My  heart  is 
glad  in  view  of  it — for  I  am  conscious  that  through 
the  mercy  of  God,  this  innocent  female  is  now  res- 
cued from  those  who  were  plotting  her  destruction. 

Sufferings  of  the  poor  relieved. — XAlh.  Have 
visited  during  the  past  week  about  fifty  families. 
It  was  satisfactory  to  see  some,  who  had  been  as- 
sisted by  us  through  the  winter,  now  able  to  pro- 
vide for  themselves,  and  thanking  and  praising  the 
Lord  for  the  timely  aid  they  had  received.  One 
aged  man  and  his  wife,  both  of  whom  were  upward 
of  seventy,  and  who  had  three  little  grandchildren 
depending  upon  them,  had  subsisted  principally 
by  charity  through  the  season.  Their  hearths 
seemed  full  of  prayer  and  praise  ;  but  whether 
they  were  serving  Christ  merely  for  the  loaves 
and  the  fishes,  we  could  not  tell.  They  followed 
us  out  of  the  house,  and  implored  for  us  the  best 
of  Heaven's  blessings.  At  the  next  door,  found  a 
family  in  a  most  distressed  condition.  The  father 
had  died  but  a  few  days  previous,  and  left  a  widow 
with  four  children.  For  a  week  they  had  lived 
only  on  a  few  potatoes,  received  from  the  w^ard 
committee.  One  little  child  of  two  years  and  a 
half  had  been  sick  for  some  weeks,  and  was  pi- 
ning away  from  actual  want.  Their  distress  was 
alleviated  for  the  time,  and  they  were  earnestly 
exhorted  to  seek  the  bread  of  life. 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


115 


At  the  farther  extremity  of  a  dark  alley,  and  up 
two  pair  of  outside  stairs,  so  broken  as  hardly  to 
afford  a  safe  passage,  we  found  a  poor  woman 
afflicted  with  rheumatism.  She  was  lying  upon 
the  floor,  with  a  log  of  wood  for  her  pillow.  She 
had  been  obliged  to  part  with  her  bed,  and  most 
of  her  clothing,  to  procure  bread  ;  and  all  she  had 
left,  which  was  a  few  old  garments,  she  had 
spread  under  her  on  the  floor,  and  over  her  hard 
pillow.  She  was  evidently  a  great  sufferer,  but 
whether  in  consequence  of  vice,  we  were  unable 
to  determine. 


116 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


CHAPTER  VII. 

General  results  of  personal  effort. — Specific  cases. — Interview 
with  a  Romanist. — Farther  particulars  with  regard  to  Law- 
yer F  . — Painful  case  of  illness  in  a  disreputable  house. — 

Bockslider  reclaimed. — The  aged  blind  woman. — Lunatic  re- 
stored.— Death  of  a  woman  who  had  been  benefited  by  Mrs. 
Prior's  labors. — Result  of  Fanny  Wright's  lectures. — Con- 
version  of  a  wine  merchant. — A  daughter  hopefully  coo- 
verted,  and  family  awakened. — Affecting  history  and  death 
of  an  orphan. — Alliance  of  vice  and  misery.— Rough  treat- 
ment.— Minister's  daughter  found  in  a  house  of  infamy. — 
Mrs.  Prior  made  prisoner. — Visit  at  the  house  of  an  infidel. 
— Hopeful  conversion. — Young  man  from  home. 

March,  1838.  During  the  past  three  months,  I 
have  visited  on  an  average,  about  three  hundred 
and  fifty  families  per  month  ;  which  makes  the 
number  visited  during  the  winter  more  than  a 
thousand.  Many  of  these  families  have  been 
found  destitute  of  every  comfort,  and  in  many  in- 
stances of  nearly  every  necessary  of  life.  To  aid 
such,  the  rich  have  been  applied  to  in  person  ;  and 
in  almost  every  instance,  ready  assistance  has 
been  afforded.  Temporal  wants  have  been  sup- 
plied ;  and  in  many  cases,  the  truth  of  God  having 
been  communicated,  the  Spirit  has  applied  it  to 
the  heart  and  conscience,  and  the  result  has  been 
some  most  interesting  conversions.    Some  who 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


117 


had  for  a  long  time  been  prevented  by  poverty 
from  attending  the  house  of  God,  have  had  the 
word  thus  brought  to  their  doors,  and  have  accept- 
ed Christ,  and  through  his  righteousness,  a  few 
have  gone  out  of  the  world,  rejoicing  in  the  hope 
of  the  glory  of  God. 

I  was  invited  by  a  Christian  friend,  about  a 
month  since,  to  call  at  what  is  considered  a  decent 
porter-house,  in  Greenwich  street,  where  the  wife 
of  the  keeper  of  the  establishment  lay  wasting  with 
consumption,  with  none  to  care  for  her  soul.  Her 
husband  was  unwilling  that  any  Christian  minister 
should  visit  her,  although  she  greatly  desired  it. 
Contrary  to  my  expectation,  I  was  admitted,  and 
allowed  to  converse  with  her  on  the  subject  of  re- 
ligion. I  found  her  impressed  with  the  importance 
of  salvation,  and  ready  at  once  to  yield  to  the 
terms  of  the  Gospel.  She  seemed  with  eagerness, 
and  an  uncommon  strength  of  faith,  to  receive  the 
Savior  as  her  hope  and  portion. 

I  have  been  allowed  to  visit  her  several  times, 
and  her  situation  in  a  room  adjoining  the  bar  of 
her  husband's  establishment,  exposed  to  the  con- 
fused sound  of  vulgar  conversation,  impious  oaths, 
and  the  varied  implements  of  the  gambling  table, 
awakened  my  commiseration  to  a  degree  which  I 
could  not  but  express  to  the  husband.  He  how- 
ever took  little  notice  of  my  request  to  have  her 
removed  to  a  more  retired  apartment    Her  cheer- 


118 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


ful  submission  to  these  distressing  circumstances, 
I  felt  might  serve  as  a  lesson  to  many  who,  while 
surrounded  by  everything  desirable,  are  still  dis- 
satisfied and  repining. 

I  had  opportunity  for  much  observation  while 
visiting  this  place.  I  here  learned  the  estimation 
in  which  porter-house  friends  hold  each  other. 
There  was  a  sea  captain  who  had  been  wealthy, 
and  consequently  courted  by  this  fraternity,  until 
his  estates  were  wasted  on  their  lusts,  and  wine, 
but  who  was  now  rudely  driven  from  their  doors. 
The  wife  remarked,  that  this  man  had  spent  hun- 
dreds at  her  husband's  bar,  but  now  he  had  noth- 
ing left  to  make  his  company  desirable.  She 
seemed  to  regret  deeply  their  manner  of  life,  but 
saw  no  way  to  remedy  the  evil,  while  her  hus- 
band's heart  remained  unsanctified. 

Hope  in  death. — Another  case  of  interest  was  that 
of  Eliza  J.,  a  young  girl  who  had  come  from  service 
in  a  respectable  family,  where  she  had  been  abun- 
dantly supplied  with  the  comforts  of  life,  to  the  home 
of  indigent  parents,  there  to  die  with  consumption. 
Her  father  made  little  or  no  provision  for  his  fam- 
ily, an3  her  mother,  who  had  been  supplied  with 
little  comforts  from  a  share  of  her  wages,  was  now 
left  with  her  sick  daughter  entirely  destitute. 

In  these  distressing  circumstances,  the  poor  girl 
found  that  she  possessed  an  unsubmissive  spirit,  a 
temper  altogether  at  variance  with  the  arrange- 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


119 


ments  of  Providence  ;  and  out  of  these  depths  she 
called  upon  God  to  subdue  sin  in  her  soul,  and  he 
heard  and  delivered  her.  When  I  found  her,  she 
expressed  her  belief  that  the  angel  of  mercy  had 
sent  me.  The  wants  of  her  body  were  supplied, 
and  her  soul  seemed  filled  with  the  fulness  of 
God. 

It  is  some  months  since  I  first  visited  her,  and 
though  she  had  suffered  greatly,  and  had  been  un- 
able during  all  this  time  to  lie  down,  on  account 
of  the  colleclion  of  phlegm  in  her  throat,  yet  I 
felt  it  was  truly  good  to  sit  and  learn  of  her  what 
God  can  do  for  the  soul  that  trusts  in  him.  She 
has  now  gone  to  her  rest,  the  subject  of  a  tri- 
umphant death,  and  doubtless  of  a  glorious  resur- 
rection. 

March. — Met  with  an  interesting  French  family. 
It  seems  that  the  Lord  had  sent  them  to  our 
shores,  for  the  purpose  of  finding  a  Savior  pre- 
cious. I  felt,  while  telling  them  of  Jesus,  and 
trying  to  understand  their  broken  English,  that, 
truly,  they  were  no  more  strangers  and  foreign- 
ers, but  fellow-citizens,  with  the  saints,  and  of  the 
household  of  God."  My  heart  was  ready  to  leap 
for  joy,  at  the  evidence  they  all  gave  of  being 
bom  again.  It  is  surely  encouragement  for  us  to 
labor  for  the  poor  immigrants  in  our  city,  of  what- 
ever nation,  or  kindred,  or  tongue,  they  may  be. 
The  conversion  of  this  whole  family,  has  resulted 


120 


WALKS  OK  USEFULNESS. 


from  the  untiring  efforts  of  the  missionary  employ- 
ed to  labor  among  this  class  of  our  citizens.  I 
gained  strength  and  encouragement  from  this 
visit,  and  hope  it  was  comforting  and  profitable  to 
them. 

29M.  Visited  a  poor  woman  in  Sixteenth-st.,  in 
distress.  Her  sufferings  had  been  great  since  the 
distribution  of  food  by  the  ward  committees  had 
ceased,  and  she  knew  of  no  means  of  relief. 
She  had  a  daughter  of  fifteen  years  of  age  for 
whom  I  felt  a  deep  interest.  I  took  them  home 
with  me,  and  supplied  their  wants. 

Interview  with  a  Romanist. — April  2d.  Revisited 
some  families  in  Sixteenth  St.,  in  company  with  a 
friend.  Conversed  with  one  woman,  in  whom  I 
felt  a  special  interest  the  first  time  I  saw  her. 
She  was  sick  with  inflammation  of  the  throat,  and 
the  spirit  of  the  Lord  had  been  opening  to  her 
view  the  hidden  iniquity  of  her  own  heart.  She 
manifested  much  joy  at  seeing  me,  and  desired 
to  have  me  speak  of  the  things  she  held  in  so 
much  contempt  at  our  last  interview.  She  was 
an  English  woman,  but  attached  to  the  church  of 
Rome.  I  spoke  of  forgiveness  of  sin  through  the 
blood  of  Christ.  She  said  she  had  just  been  con- 
fessing to  the  priest  and  had  received  absolution, 
but  she  found  no  relief ;  her  guilt  rested  upon  her 
like  a  mountain  weight.  I  directed  her  to  tho 
Lamb  of  God,  who  is  exalted  to  give  repentance 


Walks  or  usefulness. 


121 


and  remission  of  sins,  and  urged  her  io  pray.  She 
said  she  could  not.  Her  throat  Avas  so  much  in- 
flamed as  ahnost  to  deprive  her  of  the  power  of 
speech,  and  her  mind  was  greatly  troubled  in  view 
af  death,  but  after  conversing  with  her  a  little 
longer,  she  broke  out  into  one  of  the  most  affect- 
ing prayers  I  ever  heard.  Her  husbarid  sat  by, 
listening  to  all  that  passed  with  apparent  anxiety, 
lest  she  should  be  induced  to  abjure  the  catholic 
faith,  and  die  out  of  the  pale  of  the  church.  He 
interposed  frequently,  saying,  "  Good  lady,  we  don't 
want  you  to  teach  us  ;  the  priest  instructs  us  all  we 
want  to  be  instructed."  I  replied  that  I  had  a 
message  from  God  to  her,  and  could  not  be  pre- 
vented from  delivering  it.  He  left  the  room  in 
anger.  I  have  strong  hopes,  that  this  convicted 
sinner  will  soon  place  her  trust  in  the  sinner's 
only  friend. 

Case  of  Lawyer  F  . — IS/'//.  Information  was 

communicated  this  morning  that  gladdens  my 
lieart,  and  makes  me  willing  to  forget  the  trials 
of  the  way.    Allusion  is  made  under  date  of  Jan. 

i6th,  to  a  sick  lady,  wife  of  Lawyer  F  .  The 

family  with  whom  they  were  boarding  have  kindly 
given  me  the  following  sequel  to  her  story.  After 
my  last  interview  with  her,  she  continued  gradual- 
ly to  decline,  until  the  messenger  of  death  which 
had  been  long  approaching,  released  her  spirit 
from  its  frail  tenement.   She  repeatedly  expressed 


122 


WALKS  OF  USKFIJLNESS. 


gratitude  for  my  visits  to  lier,  and  before  her  de^ 
parture,  was  enabled,  through  the  grace  of  God, 
to  rejoice  in  a  good  hope  of  eternal  life.  Her 
husband  received  from  an  unknown  hand  the  paper 
containing  the  portraiture  of  his  own  character ; 
iu\d,  after  reading  it,  exhibited  a  burst  of  indigna- 
tion that  threatened  to  expend  itself,  without  mer- 
cy, upon  "  the  old  lady,"  as  he  called  her,  if  he 
could  learn  her  name.  But  the  mild  entreaties  of 
his  wife,  as  he  saw  her  advancing  to  the  grave, 
had  more  inliuence  than  he  was  willing  to  ac- 
knowledge. 

His  railings  against  "  the  old  lady"  were  silen- 
ced, and  as  he  had  no  means  of  knowing  where 
she  was,  and  the  interment  of  Mrs.  F.  called  him 
to  the  country,  he  went  away  without  inflicting 
meditated  revenge. 

Not  long  since  Mrs.  received  a  letter  from 

him,  expressing  his  purpose  not  to  return  to  the 
city,  and  also  giving  an  interesting  account  of  the 
present  state  of  his  mind.  The  letter  states  that 
the  character  given  of  him  in  the  article  alluded 
to,  aflected  him  greatly.  He  was  not  at  first 
prepared  to  believe  himself  so  bad — but  on  re- 
flection found  that  the  half  had  not  been  told. 
Once  convinced  of  his  guilt,  he  was  resolved  on 
a  different  course ;  had  taken  the  advice  of  his 
dying  wife  and  left  this  city  of  temptation  and 
highhanded  wickedness ;  and  in  the  retirement  of 


WALKS  OF   UbEFULNESS.  123 

the  country  was  seeking  that  tnie  peace  which  the 
world  can  neither  give  nor  take  away.  He  request- 

oA  Mrs.  to  remember  him  affectionately  to 

that  old  lady,  and  thank  her  for  her  faithfulness. 
This  unexpected  intelligence  awakened  emotions 
more  easily  felt  than  expressed.  I  hoped  the  poor 
instrument  had  been  owned  and  blessed,  and 
could  truly  say  from  a  full  heart,  to  God  alone  be 
all  the  praise. 

Painful  case. — 

"  Virtue  and  vice  had  boundaries  in  old  time, 
Not  to  be  passed  :  and  she  tliat  liad  i-enounced 
Her  sex's  honor,  was  renounced  herself 
By  all  that  prized  it  ;  not  for  prudery's  sake, 
But  dignity's,  resentful  of  the  wronj. 
'Twas  hard,  perhaps,  on  here  and  there  a  waif. 
Desirous  to  return,  and  not  received  ; 
But  'twas  a  wholesome  ri^or  in  the  main, 
And  taught  the  unblemished  to  preserve  with  care, 
That  purity,  whoso  loss  was  loss  of  all." 

COWPER. 

20^^.  A  pious  lady  called  and  requested  me  to 

go  with  her  to  E  st.,  to  assist  in  removing 

her  sick  niece  from  a  house  of  death,  to  a  place 
where  she  might  with  propriety  be  favored  with 
Christian  counsel,  and  efforts  be  made  for  the  sal- 
vation of  her  soul.  It  was  a  sad  errand,  but  we 
went  together  and  performed  the  task.  The  house 
was  large,  and  as  we  passed  from  room  to  room 
the  looks  of  shame  and  sorrow  that  met  us,  were 
sufficient  to  draw  pity  from  any  heart  that  had 


124 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


been  wont  to  beat  with  a  mother's  or  a  sister's 
love.  All  the  inmates  were  young — some  less  than 
15  years  of  age.  When  the  misery  of  their  con- 
dition was  alluded  to,  several  wept,  and  expressed 
a  wish  that  they  had  never  been  in  existence,  but 
said  their  case  was  now  hopeless.  They  were 
told  of  a  way  to  escape  and  urged  to  embrace  it  ; 
but  it  was  apparently  as  much  in  vain  as  preaching 
\o  the  spirits  in  prison.  It  was  a  touching  fact, 
that  a  majority  of  their  number  were  orphans  or 
fatherless.  The  poor  sufferer  whose  case  had 
brought  us  there  was  wasting  away  with  consump- 
tion. To  my  inquiries  respecting  how  she  came 
here,  her  aunt  replied  briefly,  that  she  was  the 
only  daughter  of  a  beloved  sister,  long  since  laid 
in  the  grave  ;  that  she  had  now  no  near  relations 
but  herself,  and  that  in  this  season  of  extremity 
she  hp.d  desired  her  aid.  When  quite  young  she 
was  extravagantly  fond  of  balls,  parties,  and  other 
vain  amusements,  and  allowed  to  go  and  come  as 
she  pleased.  Several  years  since  she  received 
the  addresses  of  a  young  gentleman,  and,  under 
promise  of  marriage,  was  seduced  and  ruined. 
Her  downward  progress  for  a  time  was  gradual, 
but  recently  it  had  been  more  rapid.  She  sup- 
ported an  infant  son  for  a  year  or  two,  by  means 
of  her  needle,  but  afterward  abandoned  herself 
to  vice.  This  child  is  now  seven  years  old,  has 
been  boarded  in  a  respectable  family  by  his  moth- 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


125 


er,  and  knows  not  that  she  has  ever  swerved  from 
the  path  of  rectitude.  The  aunt  seemed  to  be  ac- 
tuated only  by  Christian  principle  in  her  conduct 
toward  this  unfortunate  relative.  In  speaking  of 
lier  own  children,  she  remarked  that  the  fall  of 
their  poor  cousin  had  ever  been  a  beacon  of  warn- 
ing, and  she  had  only  to  point  to  her  to  produce 
aversion  to  the  theatre  or  the  ball-room,  or  to  in- 
duce a  ready  compliance  with  her  requirements. 
How  many  families  may  profit  by  such  painful  ex- 
amples, if  tlfey  will. 

Backslider  reclaimed. — Visiting  S.  street,  during 
the  month  of  January,  I  met  with  a  young  lady 
whose  mind  seemed  to  be  bordering  on  despair. 
My  efforts  to  encourage  or  comfort  were  apparent- 
ly fruitless.  She  had  been  a  professor  of  religion 
but  had  fallen  into  temptation,  had  lost  sight  of 
Christ  as  her  only  hope,  had  begun  to  neglect 
secret  duties,  and  was  even  unwilling  to  kneel  for 
prayer.  On  Monday,  May  21st,  I  met  her  in  the 
street.  Her  countenance  beamed  with  joy  as  she 
communicated  to  me  the  precious  intelligence,  that 
she  had  returned  to  the  Good  Shepherd,  and 
been  received  into  his  fold.  The  conversation 
which  took  place  at  our  interview,  had  been  the 
means  of  arousing  her  to  a  sense  of  duty,  and  the 
divine  blessing  had  accompanied  her  efforts  to 
perform  it.  She  was  rejoicing  in  being  permitted 
anew  to  taste  the  loving  kindness  of  her  God. 
11* 


126 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


The  family  referred  to  in  the  Advocate  of  April 
15t.h  under  date  of  March  20th,  as  keeping  a  por- 
ter-house in  Greenwich  street,  were  visited  this 
week.  The  woman  who  was  then  so  low,  has 
been  numbered  with  the  dead,  and  her  husband 
has  relinquished  his  establishment,  and  is  now 
engaged  in  business  of  a  most  reputable  kind.  He 
met  me  with  much  kindness,  and  introduced  me  to 
his  mother,  who  now  has  charge  of  his  family,  as 
a  kind  friend  who  had  visited  his  wife  in  sickness, 
but  whose  visits  he  had  not  fully '  appreciated. 
Thus  three  children,  in  answer  to  the  prayers  of  a 
dying  mother,  were  removed  from  the  baleful  in- 
fluence of  this  haunt  of  dissipation. 

Aged  blind  woman. — May  28th.  A  pious  friend 
called,  desiring  me  to  go  with  her  to  visit  a  very 
aged  blind  woman.  She  had  been  almost  a  hun- 
dred years  a  sojourner  in  this  vale  of  tears.  I 
found  her  surrounded  by  a  large  family  of  children 
and  children's  children,  who  were  visiting  her, 
with  the  expectation  that  she  would  soon  ter- 
minate her  pilgrimage.  She  expressed  herself 
gratified  with  the  visit  of  one  who  cared  for  her 
soul,  and  asked  with  much  apparent  earnestness  \ 
if  it  was  not  too  late  for  her  to  apply  for  mercy. 
I  mentioned  to  her  the  case  of  the  blind  man  by 
the  way-side,  and  recommended  her  with  my 
whole  heart,  to  the  same  Savior,  the  friend  of  sin- 
ners, as  willing  and  able  to  save  to  the  uttermost 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


127 


all  that  come  unto  God  by  him.  I  asked  her  how 
it  was,  that  when  surrounded  by  so  many  bless- 
ings, she  could  so  have  neglected  the  God  of  her 
mercies  ?  She  remarked  that  she  had  been  wait- 
ing for  some  special  influences  of  the  Spirit  to 
constrain  her  to  repent ;  but  she  had  found  at  this 
late  hour  that  she  must  apply  herself  to  Christ. 
She  said  that  the  preaching  she  had  heard  had  not 
reached  her  soul,  and  she  now  desired  to  see 
some  Christian  female  who  knew  by  experience 
the  value  of  a  Savior,  that  she  might  open  her 
heart  to  her,  and  obtain  instruction.  With  strong 
crying  and  many  tears  she  threw  herself  upon  her 
knees  and  exclaimed,  "  Blessed  Jesus,  dear  Sa- 
vior, canst  thou  have  compassion  on  such  an  old 
sinner  as  I  am  ?"  I  prayed  with  her,  and  my  faith 
took  hold  of  the  throne  of  the  Eternal.  A  young 
man,  who  told  me  he  was  the  great-grandson  of 
this  aged  lady,  entered  the  room  immediately  after 
the  prayer,  and  I  could  not  help  inviting  him,  also, 
to  come  to  the  Savior.  His  case  was  the  reverse 
of  his  aged  parent.  She  seemed  to  be  willing  to 
be  acted  upon,  while  he  was  secure  in  the  belief 
that  he  could  at  any  moment  repent  and  secure 
liis  salvation.  I  endeavored  to  be  faithful  to  him, 
and  left  them  with  a  firm  hope  that  the  old  lady, 
at  least,  would  make  Christ  her  all. 

Lunatic  restored. — June  \st.  I  called  on  a  poor 
family  mentioned  in  the  paper  of  May  1 ,  in  which 


128 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


was  a  lunatic,  who,  when  I  asked  permission  lo 
pray,  caught  the  word  and  continued  to  repeat  it 
at  different  times,  until  the  Lord  was  pleased  to 
restore  her  reason,  and  with  it  the  communication 
of  his  Spirit.  She  died  a  few  weeks  since  with 
her  hopes  centred  on  the  Rock  of  Ages.  The 
mother  now  seems  desirous  to  know  and  love  the 
Savior. 

Death  of  a  woman  who  had  been  henejited  by  Mrs. 
Prior'' s  labors. — July  \bth.  Sometime  last  winter 
I  called  upon  a  sick  woman,  whose  husband  was 
so  intemperate,  that  he  made  very  little  provision 
for  his  family. 

The  woman  needed  many  comforts,  and  while 
I  attempted  to  supply  them,  I  inquired  if  she  knew 
aught  of  the  comforts  of  religion.  She  professed 
to  be  very  good,  but  I  soon  discovered  that  it  was 
her  own  righteousness  in  which  she  trusted  ;  and 
so  well  satisfied  was  she  of  security  by  the  deeds 
of  the  law,  that  the  provision  of  the  gospel  in  her 
view  seemed  quite  unnecessary.  I  frequently  vis- 
ited her,  however,  and  tried  to  pray ;  but  the  cir- 
cumstances of  the  case  seemed  greatly  to  diminish 
the  hope  of  usefulness,  and  prayer  seemed  a  bur- 
den, until  the  Lord  was  pleased  to  send  his  Spirit 
to  convict  of  unrighteousness,  and  to  set  her  sins 
in  order  before  her ;  then  she  earnestly  desired 
that  I  would  pray,  and  the  Spirit  gave  freedom  of 
utterance.  She  at  length  found  peace  in  beliering. 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


129 


I  state  this  for  the  encouragement  of  those  who 
may  be  placed  in  like  circumstances.  Nothing  is 
too  hard  for  the  Lord.  In  this  case  I  was  ready 
to  despair  of  any  degree  of  usefulness  to  this  wo- 
man ;  and  just  while  hesitating  what  step  to  take, 
that  she  should  not  die  in  this  delusion,  I  was 
called  out  of  town.  While  absent,  as  if  to  show 
that  he  can  work  and  none  hinder,  the  Lord  sent 
his  Spirit  to  operate  savingly  upon  her  heart.  I 
found,  on  my  return,  a  message  for  me  to  call  im- 
mediately. I  went  to  the  house,  and  found  her 
dead. 

The  husband  spoke  of  the  funeral.  No 
preparation  had  been  made,  except  that  liquor 
had  been  provided  for  the  occasion.  I  told 
him  if  he  would  return  the  liquor,  I  would  get 
a  licensed  preacher,  and  bring  some  pious  friends, 
and  he  might  invite  the  neighbors  to  hear  a 
sermon.  This  he  consented  to  do,  and  I  at- 
tempted to  perform  my  part.  There  was  a 
liquor  store  below,  where  I  went  to  plead  that 
tliey  would  close  their  doors,  and  come  in  to  hear 
the  word  of  the  Lord.  After  much  urginof,  the  bar- 
tender  consented  for  one  hour  to  withhold  the  cup 
from  his  neighbor's  mouth,  and  listen  to  the  truth. 
We  had  a  solemn  meeting,  and  the  husband,  who 
had  not  heard  a  sermon  in  twenty  years,  with  many 
rough-looking  companions,  had  solemn  and  impor- 
tant truth  brought  home  to  their  ears.    May  the 


\ 

IJO  WALKS    OF  USEFULNESS. 

Lord  grant  liis  word  success,  and  snatch  these 

hardened  sinners  from  ruin,  while  they  are  where 

prayer  may  yet  be  heard. 

Injluence  of  Fanny  Wriglit^s  lectures. — 

"How  shocking  must  thy  summons  be,  O  Death, 
To  him  who  is  at  ease  in  his  possessions  I 
Who,  counting-  on  long  years  of  pleasure  here, 
Is  quite  unfurnished  for  the  world  to  come." 

Aug.  l]tli.   'j'o-dny,  after  calling  on  a  family  in 

 street,  I  was  led  to  visit  others  in  several 

large  dwellings  near  by.  In  one  of  them,  alter 
conversing  with  a  pious  mother,  I  was  shown  into 
a  sick  room,  whore  her  daughter  (a  merchant's 
wife,  and  the  mother  of  five  children)  was  lying 
in  the  last  stage  of  consumption.  As  1  entered 
the  room,  and  observed  her  emaciated  form  and 
death-like  countenance,  the  promptings  of  sympa- 
thy led  me  to  speak  to  her  of  her  precious  soul. 
At  this  she  uttered  a  shriek,  and  gave  such  a  look 
as  language  cannot  describe.  She  was  too  low  to 
speak ;  but  her  mother,  understanding  that  she 
wished  me  to  leave  her  presence,  besought  her 
earnestly  to  hear  me  talk  for  a  few  moments  about 
her  immortal  interests.  With  an  agonized  coun- 
tenance she  listened,  while  I  rehearsed  the  case 
of  the  rich  man  and  Lazarus,  and  warned  her  with 
all  possible  tenderness  now  to  make  her  peace 
with  God.  Again  she  shrieked  in  wild  despair, 
and  motioned  toward  the  door,  as  if  desirous  I 
should  depart.  As  I  left  the  room,  the  mother  fol- 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS 


131 


lowed,  and  informed  me  with  tearful  eyes,  that  the 
state  of  mind  manifested  by  her  unhappy  daughter, 
was  the  result  of  Fanny  Wright's  lectures.  First, 
her  husband's  mind  was  poisoned,  then  hers,  and 
now,  as  death  approaches,  she  has  no  support,  and 
there  seemed  to  be  such  "  a  fearful  looking  for  of 
judgment,"  that  a  bare  allusion  to  it  was  almost 
insupportable.  Poor  dying  woman  !  she  had,  like 
the  rich  man,  long  enjoyed  her  good  things,  but 
they  are  now  no  source  of  consolation.  How 
many  who,  like  her,  have  listened  to  the  vain 
sophisms  and  corrupting  principles  of  this  heroine 
of  infidelity,  will  find  too  late,  that  they  have  be- 
lieved for  eternity,  but  "  believed  a  lie  ?" 

Conversion  of  a  wine  merchant. — \bth.  Return- 
ing from  my  appointed  district  to-day,  I  was  met 
at  the  door  by  an  elderly  gentleman,  whose  family 
I  had  visited,  and  with  whom  I  had  conversed 
and  prayed  many  times.  I  had  labored  some  for 
his  salvation,  but  with  so  little  faith,  that  I  did  not 
expect  a  favorable  result.  He  had  confessed  in 
the  presence  of  his  wife,  that  he  was  not  strictly 
"  a  temperance  man  ;"  and  though  he  sometimes 
wept  and  trembled,  as  we  "  reasoned  of  righteous- 
ness, temperance,  and  a  judgment  to  come,"  yet 
he  would  never  sign  the  pledge,  and  therefore  we 
could  not  believe  there  was  much  hope  in  his 
case.  (He  had  been  a  wine  merchant,  and  accu- 
mulated a  large  property  by  vending  liquors.)  He 


132 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


called  to-day  to  tell  me  he  had  found  salvatioHj 
and  hoped,  through  grace,  to  be  enabled  hence- 
forth to  renounce  the  world,  and  live  only  to  serve 
his  Redeemer.  My  heart  was  humbled  because 
of  my  want  of  faith,  and  melted  in  view  of  the  di- 
vine goodness  in  making  me  the  unworthy  instru- 
ment of  such  mercy.  The  injunction,  "  In  the 
morning  sow  thy  seed,  and  in  the  evening  with- 
hold not  thy  hand,"  never  seemed  more  weighty 
and  important. 

Case  of  hopeful  conversion. — Nov.  Wth.  While 
engaged  in  calling  on  some  friends  of  our  cause 
to  obtain  signatures  to  a  petition,  I  entered  a  house 

in  P         street,  which  I  had  before  repeatedly 

visited.  I  was  met  by  a  young  lady  whom,  at  a 
former  visit,  I  supposed  to  be  in  the  last  stages  of 
consumption.  Ax  that  time  she  confessed  her- 
self much  devoted  to  the  vain  pleasures  of  the  ball- 
room and  the  theatre,  and  acknowledged  that  her 
imprudent  changes  of  dress  on  these  occasions  had 
originated  her  disease.  She  had  a  brother,  who 
had  shared  these  amusements  with  her.  I  con- 
versed with  her  solemnly  on  the  unsatisfying  na- 
ture of  such  pleasures,  and  recommended  those 
of  a  more  substantial  kind,  which  alone  could  sup- 
port the  soul  in  a  dying  hour,  and  in  view  of  eter- 
nity. Now,  with  an  expression  of  countenance 
which  spoke  peace  within,  she  related  to  me  the 
story  of  redeeming  love  and  mercy,  which  had 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


133 


snatched  her  from  the  jaws  of  temporal  and  spir- 
itual death.  A  new  song  was  p\it  into  her  mouth, 
even  praise  to  our  God,  and  she  was  rejoicing  in 
hope.  Her  brother  too,  though  he  did  not  give 
evidence  of  a  change  of  heart,  had  forsaken  the 
gay  circles  Avhich  they  once  visited  together,  and 
her  mother  seemed  anxious  for  her  soul's  salvation. 
Oh,  how  this  precious  intelligence  cheered  my 
heart,  and  nerved  me  for  my  future  work  and 
warfare  ! 

"  If  on  my  face,  for  thy  dear  name, 
Shame  and  reproaches  be  ; 
All  hail  reproach,  and  welcome  sh^nic, 
If  thou  remember  me  I" 

Nov.  \Qth.  Called  on  a  poor  family,  the  hus- 
band a  German,  and  the  wife  an  American.  The 
latter  was  very  sick,  and  seemed  to  be  near  her 
end.  She  was  unable  to  converse  much,  but  I 
asked  permission  to  pray  with  her.  She  was  very 
deeply  affected,  and  when  I  arose  from  prayer, 
she  clasped  her  hands,  and  raised  her  eyes  with 
rhe  thrilling  exclamation,  "  Oh,  if  such  a  friend 
had  come  before  to  talk  and  pray  with  me  ;  but  I 
fear  it  is  now  too  late. — I  can  not  talk — I  feel  that 
T  am  near  the  grave,  and  know  not  whither  I  am 
going !" 

llth.    Called  to-day  at  the  house  of  the  poor 
German ;  but  it  was  indeed  too  late  to  offer  the 
message  of  pardon  and  salvation — the  sick  woman 
had  gone  into  eternity,  and  her  everlasting  destiny 
12 


134 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


was  sealed.  Let  us  work  while  the  day  lasts  ; 
for  both  to  ourselves  and  others  the  night  of  death 
is  quickly  coming,  when  no  man  can  work. 

Nov.  28/A.  I  have  spent  a  part  of  this  day  m 
searching  far  a  lost  girl.  She  had  been  placed  by 
her  mother  at  service  in  Reed  street,  and  had 
eloped  without  the  knowledge  of  any  one  save  her 
destroyer.  There  was  some  reason  to  suppose 
she  might  be  found  in  the  vicinity  of  Grand  street, 
but  my  search  thus  far  has  been  in  vain. 

The  orphan. — 

*'  The  strangers  heart,  O  wound  it  not, 
Deal  gently  with  the  stranger's  heart- 
In  the  green  shadow  of  thy  tree, 
The  stranger  finds  no  rest  with  thee." — Hemans. 

In  one  house,  where  I  entered  to  make  inqui- 
ries, I  found  a  good  woman  who  seemed  much 
interested  in  my  errand.  She  told  me  she  had 
the  care  of  a  sick  girl,  whose  case  had  very  much 
excited  her  compassion,  and  invited  me  to  her 
room.  She  appeared  very  ill,  and  answered  my 
inquiries  in  a  subdued  tone,  and  with  an  expres- 
sion of  countenance  that  at  once  interested  and 
affected  me.  In  answer  to  the  question,  "  What 
ails  you,  my  child  she  replied,  "  A  broken  heart." 
Learning  that  she  was  an  orphan  and  a  stranger, 
I  solicited  further  information  concerning  her  case. 
She  had  resided  till  the  last  summer  in  Fred- 
erickeburgh,  Virginia,  was  left  fatherless  at  an 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


135 


early  age,  and  had  one  sister  who  was  older  than 
herself,  for  whom  she  ever  felt  the  most  tender 
Attachment.  Her  mother  married  a  second  time, 
and  although  her  stepfather  was  a  foreigner,  he 
treated  the  family  with  much  kindness.  After 
some  years  the  mother  died,  and  she  was  placed 
it  service,  and  her  sister  was  taken  by  the  father 
to  Georgetown.  Two  or  three  years  elapsed,  and 
she  heard  nothing  from  either,  but  at  length  was 
informed  that  they  had  removed  to  this  city ; 
when,  without  delay,  she  gathered  her  small 
effects,  and  commenced  her  journey  in  pursuit  of 
these,  her  only  earthly  relatives.  Here  she  found 
herself  a  lone  stranger  among  a  great  midtitude, 
where  scarce  one  of  a  hundred  have  leisure  to 
think  of  the  wretched. 

The  stepfather  was  by  occupation  a  gardener, 
and  as  his  name  was  not  in  the  directory,  she  sup- 
posed he  was  probably  in  the  employ  of  some  one, 
and  might  be  fovmd  by  persevering  research.  She 
accordingly  explored  the  city  and  its  suburbs, 
walking  from  morning  till  night,  till  her  courage 
and  strength  were  both  nearly  gone.  At  length, 
after  many  fruitless  efforts,  she  succeeded  in  as- 
certaining that  her  sister  and  stepfather  were  mar- 
ried, and  had  taken  ship  for  France  some  months 
since.  Her  grief  at  this  unexpected  intelligence 
was  almost  insupportable.  Prompted  by  sincere 
affection,  and  the  ardor  of  youthful  attachment,  she 


136 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


had  surmounted  difliculties  of  no  ordinary  magni- 
tude in  pursuing  her  beloved  relatives ;  but  now 
the  last  hope  was  blasted. 

Her  first  impulse  was  to  sit  down  in  mute 
despair;  but  she  was  sick  and  homeless.  Sum- 
moning her  wasted  energies,  she  went  again  from 
street  to  street,  inquiring  for  a  service  place.  Not 
knowing  where  to  go,  and  having  none  to  guide 
her,  she  was  unsuccessful.  At  length  she  met  an 
elderly  gentleman,  who  spoke  to  her  kindly;  and 
judging  from  his  appearance  that  it  would  be  safe 
to  confide  in  him,  she  told  her  simple,  but  aflect- 
ing  story,  and  asked  him  if  he  would  direct  her  to 
a  situation.  He  assented,  and  immediately  wrote 
an  address  upon  a  card,  and  directed  her  to  go  lo 
the  place  specified.  When  she  arrived  and  pre- 
sented her  card  at  the  door,  she  was  invited  in, 
and  shown  to  a  darkened  room  on  the  second 
floor.  As  soon  as  she  was  left  alone,  being  weary 
and  exhausted,  she  sank  upon  the  bed,  and  soon 
fell  asleep.  She  was  awakened  with  a  fit  of  ague 
—and  presently  the  keeper  of  the  house  came  in, 
and  observing  her  debility,  made  several  inquiries 
that  convinced  the  poor  girl  that  she  was  in  an 
abode  of  death."  At  this  she  rallied  her  remain- 
ing strength  to  escape  from  the  place  ;  and  as  she 
was  evidently  sick,  no  obstacles  were  interposed. 
It  was  near  night  when  she  entered  the  house  of 
the  kind  woman  where  she  now  is,  and  asked  for 


WALKS   OF   USEl'ULNESS.  137 

drink.  It  was  given  her,  when  she  immediately- 
fainted,  and  fell  to  the  floor.  The  woman  was  a 
mother,  and  her  sympathies  were  touched.  She 
had  the  poor  girl  laid  upon  a  bed,  and  when  she 
recovered,  tried  to  sooth  her.  She  soon  bled  at 
the  lungs,  and  though  a  physician  was  called,  and 
efTorts  made  to  restore  her,  repeated  attacks  ren- 
der it  more  than  probable  that  she  will  not  long 
survive.  She  brought  with  her  to  the  city  a  very 
good  wardrobe,  and  some  fifteen  or  twenty  dollars 
in  money.  A  part  of  this  was  expended,  and  she 
had  no  further  means  on  which  to  depend.  She 
seemed  fully  sensible  of  the  kindness  that  had 
been  manifested  in  "  taking  her  in"  when  she  was 
"  a  stranger,"  and  not  sending  her  away  when  it 
was  known  that  she  was  helpless  and  dependant. 
I  became  so  deeply  interested,  that  I  determined 
to  go  to  some  of  the  dwellings  of  the  rich,  and 
plead  the  cause  of  the  poor.  There  was  a  block 
near  by  where  I  was  well  assured  that  a  bounti- 
ful supply  of  earthly  good  was  enjoyed.  From  the 
lirst  six  houses  I  was  turned  empty  away,  and 
could  not  even  gain  a  hearing.  The  seventh  was 
occupied  by  a  family,  most  of  whom  were  Jews. 
They  had  learned  to  use  "hospitality  without 
grudging;"  and  though  they  were  immersed  in 
the  follies  and  vanities  of  life,  had  sufficient  kind- 
ness of  heart  to  listen  patiently  to  my  request,  and 
then  furnish  what  was  needed.  The  lady  told  me 
12* 


138 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


that  they  spent  the  Sabbath  as  a  holyday,  and  fre- 
quently invited  parties  to  dine  with  them.  During 
our  conversation  I  was  aft'ectcd  to  lears  ;  one  of 
the  Httle  daughters  observing  it,  inquired  anxiously 
why  I  wept.  Hearing  the  name  of  Christ,  she 
said,  "  Ma,  who  is  Jesus  Christ?  you  have  never 
told  me  about  him."  The  mother  turned  to  me 
pleasantly,  saying,  "  Perhaps  you  will  convert  my 
little  daughter."  Some  farther  remarks  were  made, 
to  which  both  the  parent  and  child  were  attentive 
listeners.  When  I  rose  to  leave,  I  was  urged  to 
"  come  again,"  and  had  some  encouragement  that 
a  second  call  would  not  be  "  time  lost."  I  re- 
turned to  the  room  of  the  sick  girl,  and  waited  a 
few  moments  for  the  promised  articles.  Presently 
a  bountiful  supply  was  brought  by  a  servant,  the 
sight  of  which  to  the  sufferer  seemed  like  cold 
water  to  a  thirsty  soul. 

Dec.  2d.  To-day  the  afflicted  one  above  allu- 
ded to  has  closed  her  eyes  upon  this  dark  world, 
and  there  is  reason  to  hope  that  she  found  it  gain 
to  die.^'  I  enjoyed  opportunities  of  conversing  and 
praying  with  her  at  several  different  times,  and 
obtained  a  pleasing  assurance  that  she  was  ena- 
bled to  cast  herself  upon  the  mercy  of  God  in 
Christ.  The  kind  lady  who  watched  over  her  to 
the  last,  and  whose  benevolence  is  indeed  worthy 
of  all  praise,  informed  me  that  she  requested  por- 
tions of  the  Bible  read  to  her  from  time  to  time, 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


139 


•and  seemed  to  understand  and  love  the  truth.  She 
expressed  a  wish  that  her  sister  might  be  informed 
of  her  early  departure  and  the  attending  circum- 
stances, and  also  manifested  a  willingness  to  die. 

Alliance  of  vice  and  misery. — Another  affecting 
scene  witnessed  this  afternoon,  was  a  family  of 
five  children,  with  a  sick  mother,  in  a  damp,  dark 
basement,  left  to  suffer  for  the  necessaries  of  life, 
because  of  the  beastly  intemperance  of  their  natu- 
ral guardian  and  protector.  While  endeavoring 
to  sympathize  in  their  distresses,  the  father  was 
brought  in  so  inebriated  that  he  was  as  helpless 
as  an  infant ;  and  yet  his  little  ones  were  so  agi- 
tated at  his  approach,  that  they  crept  under  a 
bed  in  one  corner  of  the  room,  trembling  with 
fear. 

If  the  Christians  in  our  land  could  see  at  one 
view,  the  mas|  of  unutterable  misery  that  is  en- 
dured in  a  single  day  by  those  who  suffer  from 
the  intemperance  of  relatives  to  whom  they  are 
nearly  allied,  they  would  surely  awake  to  the 
cause  of  temperance,  and  plead  before  the  mercy- 
seat,  as  they  have  never  done  before,  for  the  in- 
terposition of  an  Almighty  deliverer. 

lO^A.  In  one  dwelling  of  the  poor,  I  found  a 
weeping  circle  who  had  just  buried  from  their 
sight  their  only  earthly  dependance  and  head. 
The  poor  man  was  impenitent,  and  this  was  among 
his  last  expressions,  "  O  '  if  there  were  some  one 


140 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


to  pray  for  me."  My  heart  was  pained  that  such 
should  be  the  exclamation  of  a  dying  man  in  a 
community  of  Christians. 

15M.  In  W  street  I  found  a  sick  woman 

with  several  small  children,  who  was  anxious 
about  her  soul.  Slie  requested  me,  with  much 
earnestness,  to  pray  for  her.  To  avoid  interrup- 
tion I  had  the  door  locked,  and  then  engaged  in 
prayer.  Before  rising,  the  father  came. and  finding 
the  door  closed,  rapped  violently,  at  the  same  time 
demanding  admittance.  One  of  the  children  obey- 
ed him,  And  he  entered  much  enraged,  came  near 
me  and  asked  what  I  was  about ;  and  because  un- 
heeded, talked  very  rudely.  I  did  not  mhid  him 
till  my  prayer  was  finished.  He  then  said  if  I 
"  was  a  man  he  would  put  me  out  of  doors."  I 
told  him  I  was  there  about  my  Master's  business, 
in  a  good  cause,  and  not  at  all  asl^med  or  afraid ; 
his  wife  had  asked  me  to  pray  for  her,  and  I  had 
done  so,  and  should  pray  again  both  for  her  and 
her  wicked  husband,  and  the  dear  children.  1 
told  him  I  was  old  enough  to  be  his  mother,  and  I 
thought  his  conduct  had  been  very  unbecoming. 
At  length  he  confessed,  with  some  "  confusion  of 
face,"  that  he  had  acted  improperly,  and  asked  me 
to  come  again.  He  also  consented  to  let  me 
bring  his  daughter  a  Bible  that  she  might  read  it 
to  her  mother.    (They  had  had  none  in  the  house  , 


I 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


141 


for  years.)  I  carried  one,  and  several  suitable 
tracts,  both  of  which  were  received  kindly. 

Minister's  daughter  found  in  a  house  of  infamy. — 

"  The  brand  of  shame  is  on  thy  brow. 

The  fire  of  death  is  in  thy  heart, 
And  infamy  hath  made  thee  now 

Of  human  tilings,  a  thing  apart — 
An  outcast  from  each  social  tie, 

Proud  conscious  virtue's  mock  and  scorn. 
Victim  of  guilt  tliat  may  not  die — 

O  better  hadst  thou  ne'er  been  bom." 

\9th.  The  case  of  Ellen  ,  the  minister's 

daughter,  who  eloped  when  very  young  and  was 
brought  here  and  then  abandoned  by  one  for  whom 
she  had  left  all,  has  greatly  interested  my  feelings  ; 
and  knowing  the  neighborhood  of  her  residence,  I 
have  endeavored  this  morning  to  find  her,  and 
think  I  have  succeeded.  I  had  little  hope  of  doing 
her  good,  but  the  bare  possibility  made  me  willing 
to  attempt  it.  Her  house  is  in  the  vicinity  of  a 
noted  theatre  ;  and  among  twenty  adjoining  dwel- 
lings, I  found  six  of  the  worst  description.  A 
practical  comment  upon  the  morality  of  the  theatre. 
The  inmates  of  these  different  establishments,  ob- 
serving my  tracts  and  papers,  treated  me  with  re- 
spect, and  listened  with  some  interest  to  my  mes- 
sage.   The  house  that  had  been  pointed  out  as 

the  residence  of  Ellen  ,  was  furnished  with 

taste  and  elegance,  and  there  was  nothing  in  the 
appearance  of  the  individual  that  would  indicate 
the  blackness  of  her  character.    She  allowed  me 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


to  be  seated,  and  I  then  told  her  that  I  was  direct- 
ed here  to  see  a  person  named  Ellen  ,  who 

is  a  daughter  of  a  minister  at  the  south,  but  has 
thrown  herself  away,  broken  the  hearts  of  her  pa- 
rents, and  not  only  destroyed  her  own  soul,  but  is 
leading  a  young  man,  much  beloved  by  his  friends, 
in  the  same  road  to  death.  He  has  been  here 
from  time  to  time  for  two  years  past,  and  it  has 
come  to  the  knowledge  of  his  mother,  and  is 
breaking  her  heart ;  and  if  he  is  not  reclaimed 
will  bring  down  her  gray  hairs  w^ith  sorrow  to  the 
grave.  "  But,  my  child,  I  should  not  think  from 
yoiu*  looks  that  you  could  be  the  one."  Her  counte- 
nance fell,  she  wept,  and  was  apparently  much 
overcome.  The  Lord  enabled  me  to  deal  faith- 
fully, and  on  leaving,  gave  me  a  consciousness  of 
having  discharged  my  duty.  The  parents  of  the 
young  man  I  have  learned  are  of  the  first  respect- 
ability, and  have  spared  no  pains  to  win  him  back 
to  virtue.  Another  thing  also  is  true  concerning 
him.  Notwithstanding  he  was  a  Sabbath  scholar 
and  religiously  educated,  yet  his  mind  was  cor- 
rupted when  a  mere  child  by  the  influence  of  vile 
books  and  evil  associates.  Let  parents  inquire 
who  are  the  companions  of  their  cliildren. 

On  my  return  I  was  induced  to  leave  the  paper 
and  a  certain  tract  at  another  house  of  infamy  in 

G  street.    Supposing  I  should  meet  with  no 

difficulty,  I  entered  and  presented  them  to  the 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


143 


women  who  composed  the  family.    As  soor.  as 
they  observed  the  words  "  moral  reform,"  the  door 
was  closed  and  locked  by  one  of  the  company, 
who  said  at  the  same  time  exultingly,  "  You  are 
our  prisoner."  For  a  moment  my  heart  was  tremu- 
lous ;  I  said  nothing  till  the  risings  of  fear  were 
quelled,  and  then  replied  pleasantly,  "  Well,  if  I'm 
a  prisoner  I  shall  pray  here,  and  would  sing  praises 
to  God  if  I  were  not  so  hoarse.    Yes,  bless  the 
Lord !  his  presence  can  make  me  happy  here  or 
anywhere,  and  you  can  have  no  power  to  harm 
me  unless  he  gives  it.    This  is  a  dreadful  place, 
to  be  sure,  but  it  is  not  so  bad  as  hell ;  for  there, 
there  is  no  hope.    The  smoke  of  their  torment  as- 
cendeth  up  for  ever  and  ever !    What  a  mercy 
that  we  are  not  all  there !    What  compassion 
in  the  blessed  Jesus  that  he  spares  us,  when 
our  sins  are  every  day  so  great!"    I  talked  to 
them  in  this  way  till  they  were  glad  to  open  the 
door  as  a  signal  for  my  release.    Indeed  they 
seemed  quite  ashamed,  and  tried  to  apologize  for 
their  rudeness  by  saying  that  they  had  nothing  at 
all  against  me,  it  was  only  the  paper  that  displeas- 
ed them.    They  thought  that  a  bad  concern,  and 
that  it  was  injuring  a  great  many.    *    *    *  As 
I  walked  toward  my  home,  it  was  sweet  to  medi- 
tate upon  the  words  of  the  poet : — 

"  Through  all  the  dangers  of  the  day 
Thy  hand  has  been  my  giiard  ; 
And  still  to  drive  my  fears  awa^r 
Tb"  •rtpr/'v  «»r>o<j  preparpd  " 


144 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


Visit  at  the  house  of  an  Injidel. — 

"  Salcation,  life, 
And  death.    Eternal  life  !  Eternal  death  '. 
Dread  words  \  whose  meaning  has  no  end,  no  bounds." 

Jan.  26th.  Some  clays  since  a  Christian  frieiul 
requested  me  to  visit  a  sick  man  who  was  drawing 
near  the  grave  without  hope,  and  so  much  oppos- 
ed to  Christianity  that  he  would  not  permit  a  min- 
ister to  approach  him.  He  was  a  husband  and 
father,  but  his  example  before  his  wife  and  chil- 
dren, has  had  a  direct  tendency  to  allure  to  death. 
He  was  emphatically  "  a  Fanny  Wright  man,'^  and 
had  been  a  stated  worshipper  of  the  God  of  this 
world  within  the  walls  of  Tammany  Hall.  I 
ivas  allowed  to  enter  his  dwelling  and  gained  ac- 
cess to  his  room.  Several  of  his  friends  were 
about  him,  and  it  seemed  to  me  a  much  greater 
cross  than  usual  to  discharge  my  duty.  When  I 
inquired  kindly  whether  he  expected  to  recover, 
he  replied,  it  was  quite  immaterial  to  him  whether 
he  should  get  well  or  not.  "  But  my  friend  are 
you  prepared  to  die  ?"  "  None  of  your  business," 
said  he,  roughly.  "  O  yes,"  I  continued,  "  the 
Lord  makes  it  my  business  to  care  for  the  souls 
of  my  fellow-beings,  and  it  is  my  duty  to  say  to 
you  that  if  you  do  not  repent,  and  love  the  Lord 
Jesus  Christ  you  will  be  lost  for  ever."  He  re- 
plied, "  I  do  not  believe  in  Christ."  "  Then," 
said  I,  "  it  is  useless  to  talk  to  you,  for  you  are 
now  a  lost  man !"  My  heart  was  full  and  I  turned 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


145 


to  leave  him,  but  on  opening  the  door,  the  convic- 
tion was  so  strong  that  the  Lord  would  have  me 
pray  with  him,  that  I  turned  back,  and  though  the 
struggle  was  so  great  that  my  face  was  bathed  in 
perspiration,  I  knelt  by  his  bedside  and  gave  utter- 
ance to  the  gratitude  that  was  awakened  in  view 
of  the  fact  that  there  was  "  peace  and  pardon  to 
the  sinner  liirough  the  blessed  Savior,  that  his 
blood  was  sufficient  to  wash  away  every  stain, 
even  from  the  vilest — the  thief  on  the  Cross,  a 
blood-thirsty  Manasseh,  and  a  Saul  of  Tarsus, 
were  saved  through  faith  in  his  name  :"  indeed, 
the  view  of  his  love  and  mercy  graciously  given 
me  at  this  time,  was  inexpressibly  great.  I  went 
away  filled  with  adoring  gratitude,  for  hitherto  had 
the  Lord  helped  me.  A  day  or  two  passed  and  I 
was  inclined  to  go  again,  and  after  providing  some 
dainties  used  for  the  sick,  I  called  at  the  door  and 
readily  gained  admission.  The  poor  man  gave 
me  his  hand,  and  spoke  in  a  subdued  tone  of  voice, 
and  I  soon  perceived  to  my  surprise  and  joy,  that 
his  heart  was  touched  to  tenderness.  I  was  re- 
quested to  call  again  and  have  since  seen  him  re- 
peatedly. He  now  professes  new  views  and  new 
feelings,  and  seems  indeed  clothed  and  in  his  right 
mind,  sitting  at  the  feet  of  Jesus.  He  talks  to  all 
that  come  in,  and  urges  his  impenitent  friends  to 
flee  from  the  wrath  to  come.  He  says  the  allu- 
sion to  the  thief  on  the  Cross,  sent  conviction  to 


146 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


his  soul.  Truly  this  is  "  a  brand  plucked  from  the 
burning."    To  God  alone  be  all  the  praise. 

Young  man  from  home. — 29th.  Passing  through 
A —  St.,  I  called  at  a  boarding-house  where  I  had 
once  been  privileged  to  save  a  youth  from  pursuing 
the  downward  road.  During  my  stay  I  had  an  in- 
terview with  a  middle-aged  woman,  who  was  em- 
ployed as  nurse  for  a  sick  man  fro^  the  south. 
She  was  seriously  disposed  but  not  pious.  Know- 
ing my  errand  was  to  do  good,  she  named  to  me 
the  case  of  a  sick  man,  and  remarked  that  his  state 
of  mind  was  interesting. 

Upon  further  inquiry  I  learned  the  following 

particulars.    Mr.  came  to  this  city  a  few 

weeks  since  on  business.  Having  heard  much  at 
the  south  respecting  the  publications  of  F.  M.  R. 
Society,  he  resolved  to  get  them  and  read  them  at 
his  leisure. 

He  accordingly  called  at  their  ofRce  and  obtain- 
ed a  supply  of  tracts  and  papers. 

Shortly  after  this,  being  at  a  dinner-party,  it  was 
agreed  by  himself  and  most  of  the  company,  to  ad- 
journ to  the  theatre  in  the  evening. 

On  returning  he  was  taken  sick,  in  consequence 
of  exposure  to  the  cold  after  leaving  a  confined 
and  heated  atmosphere.  His  disease  proved  dan- 
gerous and  my  informant  was  employed  to  nurse 
him.  She  said  his  mind  seemed  to  be  laboring, 
and  last  evening  he  was  unusually  distressed. 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


147 


Sometime  in  the  night  observing  liim  extremely- 
restless,  she  inquired  if  she  could  do  nothing  for 
him.  "  Yes,"  he  replied,  "  you  can  take  a  tract 
from  my  coat  pocket  there  and  burn  it."  "  What 
tract?"  she  inquired.  "The  one  commencing, 
'  Run,  speak  to  that  young  man,'  "  said  he.  "  May 
I  not  read  it  first  ?"  "  A^o,"  continued  he  with  an 
imprecation  not  to  be  repeated,  "  put  it  in  the  fire, 
T  can  not  sleep  for  it,  it  is  staring  me  in  the  face 
continually."  After  looking  over  the  contents  a 
moment,  she  complied  with  his  request.  Seeing 
the  flame,  he  exclaimed  "  Have  you  burned  that 
tract  ?"  "  Yes,"  was  her  reply.  "  Well,"  said  he 
despairingly,  "  it  will  do  no  good,  it  is  still  before 
me  as  though  written  in  a  sunbeam."  She  was 
affected,  knowing  that  his  distress  was  caused  by 
conviction  of  sin,  and  said  to  him,  "  Sir,  I  think  it 
is  not  the  tract,  but  the  voice  of  God  speaking  to 
you,  and  you  should  listen  to  it,  for  you  know  you 
may  not  live  but  a  little  while." 

After  being  silent  some  moments,  he  inquired 
of  her  if  she  could  pray  ?  She  replied  yes,  with 
some  hesitation.  "  Well,"  he  said,  "  will  you  pray 
for  me  ?"  Not  knowing  just  how  to  answer,  but 
thinking  she  could  in  her  heart  desire  that  he 
might  find  rehef,  she  said  "  Yes."  Again  there 
was  perfect  stillness  for  some  moments.  He  broke 
the  silence  by  saying,  "  Why  don't  you  pray  ?  I 
don't  hear  you."    She  told  him  she  had  never 


148 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


prayed  aloud,  and  did  not  know  how  to  do  so  be- 
fore a  gentleman  like  him.  He  then  spoke  with 
tenderness  of  his  mother,  said  she  was  a  Christian, 
and  had  often  prayed  for  him,  expressed  a  strong 
desire  to  see  her,  and  great  fear  that  they  should 
meet  no  more  ;  and  continued  sleepless  and  rest- 
less through  the  night. 

I  found  this  a  good  opportunity  to  make  a 
solemn  appeal  to  the  kind  nurse,  and  she  seemed 
to  feel  that  it  was  important  to  learn  to  pray  aloud 
before  she  should  be  placed  in  like  circumstances 
again. 

Continuing  my  walk  till  a  late  dinner  hour,  I 
became  weary  and  faint,  and  entered  a  cake  shop 
to  obtain  some  refreshment.  In  one  corner  of  the 
room  an  aged  man  stood  fiddling.  While  his  wife 
waited  on  me,  to  improve  the  present  moment  I 
remarked  to  him,  "  Sir,  from  your  appearance 
more  than  seventy  winters  have  passed  over  you, 
and  to  me  it  is  a  sorrowful  sight  to  see  one  so  old 
thus  employed.  0,  how  much  better  to  be  pray- 
ing, and  praising  God,  and  preparing  to  praise  him 
in  heaven."  He  was  angry,  threw  down  his 
fiddle,  and  asked  roughly  what  I  called  religion — 
asserting  at  the  same  time  his  infidel  sentiments. 
Several  children  were  standing  near,  and  seemed 
to  listen  with  eagerness.  It  was  painful  to  think 
his  words  might  make  an  impression  that  they 
would  remember.  If  "  one  sinner  destroyeth  much 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


149 


good,"  0  how  many  of  the  beloA^ed  youth  and 
children  of  our  city  are  constantly  exposed  to  de- 
struction. 

Jan.  I2th,  1839.  My  heart  has  this  day  been 
gladdened  by  the  cheering  intelligence  that  the 
young  man  alluded  to  under  the  date  of  Dec.  29, 
is  now  indulging  a  hope  of  pardoned  sin. 

13* 


150 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


CHAPTER  VIII. 

Death  of  Mr.  F. -Visit  at  asylum  for  aged  and  indigent  fe- 
males.—Parental  faithfulness  rewarded.— Wife  of  the  infidel 
converted.— Christ  rejected.- The  neglected  child.— Dying 
faith.— Jlome  of  the  profligate.— Deserted  wife.— Orphan 
sisters.— Visit  to  straw  factories.- Salvation  of  an  orphan 
through  means  of  the  Advocate.— Interview  with  a  convict- 
ed sinner. 

Jan.  \9th.  I  have  to-day  collected  clothing,  and 
supplied  nine  different  families  of  the  deserving 
poor.  As  I  was  passing  from  the  dwellings  of 
some  of  these  to  the  relief  of  others,  I  providen- 
tially met  with  the  lady  vv^hose  case  was  stated  in 
the  last  paragraph  of  the  Visiter's  report,  in  the 
Advocate  of  March  15,  1838.  Her  husband  was 
with  her,  and  as  we  met  upon  the  side-walk,  she 
caught  my  hand,  and  with  an  expression  of  coun- 
tenance that  would  have  been  a  rich  reward  for 
much  greater  kindness  than  I  had  rendered,  said 
to  him,  "  This  is  the  lady  who  saved  me  ;"  and 
then  both  together  began  to  testify  their  gratitude. 
I  replied  by  saying,  "  It  was  the  Lord  who  saved 
you ;  I  was  only  the  poor  instrument  that  he  saw 
fit  to  use."  To  this  they  assented,  and  then  re- 
lated with  grateful  emotions  what  God  had  recent- 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


151 


ly  done  for  their  souls.  They  were  both  rejoicing 
in  redeeming  love. 

Death  of  Mr.  F.—2\st.  Mr.  F  ,  the  convert- 
ed infidel,  who  has  been  twice  aUuded  to,  has  at 
length  departed  this  He  was  sustained  to  the 
last  by  that  hope  which  is  an  anchor  to  the  soul, 
and  enabled,  even  in  his  dying  moments,  to  rejoice 
with  joy  unspeakable  and  full  of  glory.  After  his 
conversion  till  his  death,  he  suffered  no  opportunity 
for  warning  and  entreating  the  impenitent,  to  pass 
neglected.  As  the  result  of  his  faithfulness,  several 
are  now  inquiring  what  they  shall  do  to  be  saved. 
His  wife  remarked  to  me  that  she  was  fully  resolved 
to  follow  the  example  of  Christiana,  in  the  Pilgrim's 
Progress,  take  her  family,  and  go  on  a  pilgrimage 
toward  the  "  Celestial  city,"  where  she  was  as- 
sured her  husband  had  now  entered  to  go  no  more 
put  for  ever. 

Asylum  for  the  aged. — This  afternoon  visited  by 
request  the  new  institution  recently  erected  as  an 
"  Asylum  for  respectable  aged  and  indigent  fe- 
males." The  Christian  friends  who  accompanied 
me  were  highly  delighted.  Indeed  no  one  pos- 
sessing the  heart  of  a  woman  and  a  Christian 
could  behold  the  goodness  of  God  in  providing  this 
asylum  for  the  aged,  every  way  so  comfortable 
and  pleasant,  without  warm  emotions  of  gratitude. 
The  building,  which  is  sufficiently  large  to  accom- 
modate one  hundred  individuals,  has  been  comple- 


152 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


ted  at  great  expense,  and  is  designed  to  furnish  a 
permanent  home  for  the  infirm  and  destitute  known 
to  be  worthy  of  its  charities. 

It  will  afford  a  calm  retreat  to  many  who  have 
"  borne  the  heat  and  bufltn  of  the  day,"  and  are 
left  in  the  decline  of  life  with  no  earthly  prop  on 
which  to  lean.  Twenty  inmates  are  already 
gathered,  some  of  whom  are  over  eighty  years  of 
age,  and  most  of  them  are  professedly  pious. 
They  had  come  here  to  spend  their  second  child- 
hood, and  go  down  to  the  grave.  As  we  stood 
within  this  pleasant  dwelling,  consecrated  by  the 
prayers  and  alms  of  the  benevolent,  we  were  im- 
pressed with  the  thought  that  here  many  a  w  eary 
pilgrim  may  put  off  the  robes  of  mortality,  and 
exchange  cares  and  infirmities,  poverty  and  pain, 
for  immortal  youth  and  vigor,  in  "  a  house  not 
made  with  hands,  eternal  in  the  heavens."  Before 
leaving,  we  were  permitted  to  unite  in  a  season  of 
prayer  in  which  all  seemed  to  participate  with 
deep  interest. 

26///.  Have  to-day  succeeded  in  placing  the  or- 
phan girl,  taken  from  the  hospital,  in  a  situation 
where  it  is  hoped  she  may  be  kept  from  the  paths 
of  the  destroyer. 

Parental  faithfulness  rernarded, — Feh.  15th.  To- 
day met  with  a  friend  of  the  cause,  who  has  thus 
far  acted  in  accordance  with  our  principles  in 
training  her  only  son.    As  the  result  of  this  train- 


WALKS   OF  USEFULXE3S. 


153 


ing  a  few  days  since  he  remarked  to  her,  that  the 
hired  girl  whom  she  had  employed  must  be  dis- 
missed. She  inquired  why,  and  learned  with  sur- 
prise that  her  conduct  in  his  presence  had  been 
exceedingly  improper.  He  then  referred  to  what 
his  mother  had  taught  him,  as  a  reason  for  his 
using  the  freedom  to  tell  her  the  unpleasant  truth. 
She  commended  him  for  his  integrity  and  filial 
confidence,  and  discharged  the  girl  after  faithfully 
admonishing  her  of  her  great  guilt  in  the  sight  of 
a  holy  God.  Had  this  mother  neglected  to  give 
instniction  on  this  all-important  subject,  her  son 
might  have  been  ensnared,  and  fallen  an  easy  prey, 

InfidcVs  wife  converted. — \^th.  I  have  learned 
to-day  that  the  v/ife  of  the  converted  infidel 
mentioned  under  date  of  Jan.  31,  is  indulging  a 
hope  in  Christ,  and  has  united  with  the  church. 
The  young  man  alluded  to  is  also  rejoicing  in 
hope,  has  visited  Tammany  Hall  for  the  last  time, 
and  feels  that  he  is  a  brand  plucked  from  the 
ourning. 

Christ  rejected. — 

"  Admit  him  ere  his  anger  b^irn, 
His  feet  departed,  ne'er  return  ; 
Admit  him,  or  the  hour's  at  hand 
When  at  his  door  denied  you'll  stand." 

26M.  I  was  much  affected  this  afternoon  by 
an  interview  with  an  aged  sinner.  The  wo- 
man was  about  90  years  old,  and  her  state  of 
mind  was  awful  beyond  description.    As  I  ap- 


154 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


proached  her  bed,  after  some  expression  of  sym- 
pathy for  her  apparent  sufferings,  I  tried  to  point 
her  to  Christ.  She  exclaimed  in  agony,  "  Don't 
call  that  name  in  my  presence  ;  I  have  rejected 
him,  grieved  his  Spirit,  and  sinned  against  the 
Holy  Ghost  so  as  to  seal  my  eternal  doom."  I 
tried  to  reason  with  her,  but  in  vain.  She  con- 
tinued, "  Don't  talk  to  me !  it  will  do  no  good,  I 
will  not  hear,  warn  others,  spare  your  tears  for 
those  who  can  find  place  for  repentance.  If  my 
voice  could  sound  like  thunder,  it  should  warn  the 
young  not  to  resist  conviction,  or  grieve  the  Spirit 
but  for  once.  Oh,  tell  them  to  take  warning  from 
me — entreat,  beseech  them  to  make  their  peace 
with  God  while  mercy  may  be  found  !"  She  stated 
that  twice,  while  young,  she  was  deeply  impressed, 
and  each  time  resisted  the  voice  of  the  Spirit  and 
put  off  the  subject  to  a  more  convenient  seasoa. 
She  knew  the  precise  time  when  she  rejected  the  last 
ofTer  of  salvation,  and  since  this  there  has  been  but 
a  fearful  looking  for  of  judgment  and  fiery  indigna- 
tion. It  is  impossible  to  convey  an  adequate  idea 
of  her  expression  of  countenance  during  this  con- 
versation. A  part  of  the  time  her  whole  frame 
was  convulsed  with  spasms,  and  seemed  to  par- 
ticipate with  the  mind  in  the  awful  foretaste  of  the 
horrors  of  eternal  despair.  This  painful  interview 
gave  me  a  point  of  observation  not  soon  to  be  for- 
gotten.   The  worth  of  the  soul,  the  importance 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


155 


of  improving  our  day  of  grace,  and  the  inestimable 
value  of  a  good  hope  in  Christ,  filled  the  whole 
scope  of  vision,  and  all  beside  appeared  as  a  mere 
mote  in  the  sunbeam. 

The  neglected  child. — March  2d.  After  spending 
an  hour  in  social  prayer  with  a  few  Christian  sis- 
ters, who  have  set  apart  this  morning  to  remember 
unitedly  the  interests  of  our  cause,  I  visited  a  sick 
girl  with  whose  wants  I  had  previously  been  made 
acquainted,  and  also  distributed  about  fifty  tracts 

and  papers.    Passing  through  street,  on  my 

return,  I  observed  a  child  ten  or  eleven  years  old, 
dragging  a  quantity  of  staves  along  the  side-walk. 
Her  tattered  garments  which  scarce  formed  a 
covering  from  the  cold,  left  her  limbs  entirely  ex- 
posed, her  feet  were  much  bruised,  and  looked  as 
if  bitten  by  the  frost.  I  inquired  her  name  and 
residence,  and  also  whether  she  was  a  colored  or 
a  white  child.  She  replied  that  she  was  white,  but 
said  her  step-mother  did  not  take  care  of  her,  and 
very  often  she  had  not  bread  to  eat.  I  followed 
her  a  long  distance  to  her  home,  in  21st  street. 
The  place  was  too  filthy  to  enter,  and  the  wretch- 
ed step-mother  was  lying  stupid  upon  the  floor. 
Three  half-starved  children  were  crying  around  her, 
but  her  senses  were  so  locked  up  by  the  intoxica- 
ting draught,  that  she  heeded  them  not.  I  sent  the 
girl  for  some  bread  and  soap,  after  which  she  took 
a  more  thorough  washing  than  she  had  probably 


156 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


had  for  years.  The  effect  so  changed  her  com- 
plexion that  her  true  color  was  readily  perceived. 
The  bread  was  divided  among  them  and  served  to 
appease  their  cries.  The  eldest,  as  I  learned  from 
the  neighbors,  w^as  employed  constantly  in  begging 
and  gathering  fuel,  and  when  unsuccessful  was 
beaten  and  abused  by  her  cruel  step-mother.  Be- 
fore returning  to  my  residence,  I  applied  to  the 
proper  authorities  and  obtained  a  promise  that  she 
should  be  taken  the  next  day  to  the  school  at 
Long  Island  Farms.  Her  condition  will  be  great- 
ly improved,  and  the  privilege  of  doing  her  good 
was  in  itself  a  rich  reward  for  my  care  and  labor. 
Dying  faith. — Sth.  In  one  house  visited  to-day, 
found  a  sick  mother  with  a  lovely  infant,  who 
was  earnestly  watching  for  the  hour  of  her  re- 
lease from  earth.  Physicians  had  pronounced 
her  past  recovery,  but  her  faith  was  fixed  upon  the 
Rock  of  Ages,  and  death  was  robbed  of  its  sting. 
It  was  delightful  to  observe  the  heavenly  smile 
that  beamed  upon  her  countenance.  Her  husband 
acknowledged  that  he  had  been  an  infidel,  but 
said  that  the  state  of  mind  manifested  by  his  wife, 
had  convinced  him  that  there  was  a  reality  in  re- 
ligion. 

In  another  house  the  death  of  two  only  chil- 
dren, who  had  been  suddenly  removed,  had  result- 
ed in  the  hopeful  conversion  of  both  the  parents. 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


157 


Such  instances  seem  like  sunny  spots  in  the 
midst  of  the  surrounding  darkness. 

9th.  This  afternoon  our  heavenly  Father  grant- 
ed us  the  privilege  of  rejoicing  in  his  goodness, 
that  another  precious  soul  for  which  we  had  la- 
bored and  prayed,  was  hopefully  gathered  into  the 
fold  of  Jesus.  These  mercy  drops  call  for  un- 
ceasing gratitude. 

Home  of  the  projligate. — 

"  Vice  is  a  monster  of  such  frightful  mien, 
That  to  be  hated,  needs  but  to  be  seen." 

1  \th.  A  tract  visiter  called  sometime  since,  and 
requested  that  a  family  in  Eldridge  street  might 
be  visited,  and  means  used  to  save  the  eldest 
daughter,  a  girl  of  fourteen  years  of  age.  Her 
wish  was  complied  with,  but  the  mother  would  not 
on  any  terms  consent  that  she  should  be  removed. 
Entreaties  proving  abortive,  the  case  was  consid- 
ered nearly  hopeless.  The  tract  visiter  was  so 
deeply  interested  that  she  called  again  to  see  if 
something  more  could  not  be  done.  She  stated 
that  the  mother  was  unquestionably  a  vile  woman, 
and  the  children  if  not  ruined  would  soon  become 
so.  I  resolved  to  devote  this  morning  to  the  case, 
and  although  my  knowledge  of  the  place  made 
me  shrink  from  encountering  it  again,  yet  faith  in 
the  promise,  "  as  thy  day  is,"  &;c.,  gave  me  strength 
to  go  forward.  I  will  give  a  short  description  of 
the  cellar,  simply  that  it  may  serve  as  a  specimen 
14 


158 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


of  the  miserable  abodes  into  wliich  we  are  some- 
times led  :  passing  up  an  alley,  I  came  to  a  flight 
of  steps,  so  broken  and  dark  that  it  was  almost 
hazardous  to  descend  them.  By  a  slow  process  I 
succeeded  in  finding  the  door,  and  on  opening  it, 
the  first  thing  that  presented  itself  was  a  huge  dog 
chained  to  a  post  as  a  sentinel.  A  few  panes  of 
glass,  encased  in  soot  and  dust,  afforded  light  suf- 
ficient to  discern  the  filthy  objects  about  the 
room.  On  each  hand  lay  a  pile  of  rags,  and  on 
the  opposite  side  were  some  broken  stools,  a  bed- 
stead and  table  partly  cleared,  which  made  up  the 
list  of  furniture.  Two  ragged  children  were  stand- 
ing in  a  corner,  and  'the  eldest  girl  was  sitting 
upon  the  side  of  the  table,  gaudily  dressed,  with 
several  rings  upon  her  fingers.  One  of  the  women 
whom  I  had  seen  there  on  my  last  visit  was  mis- 
sing. I  learned  that  not  long  since,  being  left  one 
afternoon  with  the  children,  she  sent  for  the  usual 
supply  of  liquor.  After  drinking  three  glasses, 
she  amused  them  awhile  by  singing  songs,  and 
became  gradually  insensible.  At  length  one  of 
the  children  observing  she  had  fallen  from  her 
seat,  tried  to  arouse  her,  but  did  not  succeed. 
About  11  o'clock  the  mother  came  in,  and  saw  at 
once  that  death  had  done  its  work,  and  she  could 
sing  and  drink  no  more.  This  wretched  woman, 
like  the  mother,  had  been  living  there  in  open 
profligacy,  and  her  awful  death  seemed  only  to 


WALKS  CF  USEFULNESS. 


159 


have  produced  a  hardening  influence.  The  mother 

still  continued  to  take  her  daughter  with  her  to 

"  the  pit  of  the  theatre  to  sell  confectionery,"  and 

her  intemperance  was  proverbial.    I  tried  again 

to  obtain  her  consent  that  the  children  should  be 

removed  to  some  better  place,  but  found  entreaties 

vain.    The  last  hope  remaining  is,  that  the  city 

authorities  may  be  induced  to  enforce  an  existing 

law,  and  thus  remove  them. 

Deserted  wife. — 

"  I  waive  the  quantum  o'  the  sin, 
The  hazard  of  concealing, 
But  och,  it  hardens  a'  within. 
And  petrifies  the  feeling." 

I  called  on  several  living  near,  to  ascertain  wheth- 
er their  testimony  would  corroborate  that  of  the  tract 
visiter,  above  alluded  to.  In  one  house  I  found  a 
Christian  sister,  who  desired  me  to  call  at  No.  — 

in  street,  where  she  was  assured  that  counsel 

or  sympathy  would  be  gratefully  received.  I  did 
so, — and  as  a  sort  of  introduction,  stated  that  a 
friend  had  desired  me  to  call,  and  also  named  the 
case  that  had  brought  me  to  this  section  of  the 
city,  remarking  at  the  same  time,  that  one  object 
of  our  society  was  to  seek  out  the  wretched,  and 
if  possible  do  them  good.  The  lady  listened  atten- 
tively, and  was  affected  to  tears,  as  she  said,  "  You 
seem  to  me  like  an  angel  of  mercy,  for  I  am  one 
of  the  wretched  in  heart,  though  not  externally." 
She  then  informed  me  what  had  been  their  former 


160 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS, 


circumstances,  and  what  they  were  at  present. 
They  had  a  lovely  family  of  four  children  :  the 
father  had  been  in  a  flourishing  business,  but  re- 
cently had  abandoned  his  wife  and  little  ones,  and 
become  a  constant  visiter  at  the  house  of  the 
strange  woman.  She  had  followed  him  repeatedly 
to  the  door  unobserved,  and  longed  to  enter  and 
plead  with  his  paramour  to  desist  from  her  work 
of  death,  but  could  not  summon  courage.  I  told 
her  my  age  and  experience  made  it  safe  for  me  to 
enter  these  abodes  when  duty  required,  and  if  she 
desired  it,  I  Avould  go  with  her.  She  seemed  glad 
of  the  opportunity,  and  we  went  together  to  G**** 
street.  As  we  rang  the  bell  at  the  door,  the  mis- 
tress came.  Our  plan  had  been  formed  by  the 
way,  and  the  lady  immediately  inquired  if  she 
took  boarders,  had  vacant  rooms,  &c.  We  were 
answered  in  the  aflirmative,  and  requested  to  look 
at  the  rooms,  and  make  such  choice  as  she  pre- 
ferred. We  followed  her  to  the  second  floor,  and 
casting  a  hasty  look  at  several  of  the  rooms, 
remarked  that  we  should  like  to  look  at  the  dining- 
room.  It  was  the  dinner  hour,  but  no  objection 
was  made  to  our  wishes.  Several  girls  were 
seated  at  dinner  :  the  lady  surveyed  them  for  a 
moment,  and  then  raising  her  hands,  while  her 
countenance  expressed  unutterable  emotion,  she 
addressed  herself  to  the  company  in  words  to  this 
eflect :  "  I  am  a  wife  and  the  mother  of  four  be- 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


161 


loved  children, — my  husband  is  dear  to  me — some 
one  of  you,  I  know  not  who  it  is — you  know,  and 
God  knows — has  led  him  away  from  his  home, 
weaned  his  affections  from  his  family,  and  caused 
the  innocent  to  sufler."  Then  falling  upon  !ier 
knees,  she  poured  out  her  whole  soul  to  her 
heavenly  Father  in  a  most  pathetic  and  melting 
manner.  The  miserable  women  appeared  utterly 
astounded,  and  one  by  one  left  the  room  silently, 
so  that  when  we  rose,  there  was  none  remaining 
except  our  conductor.  She  appeared  willing  to 
attempt  some  apology,  and  said,  "  We  keep  this 
house  for  gentlemen,  and  we  never  inquire  wheth- 
er they  are  married  or  single — that  is  their  busi- 
ness." 

Orphan  sisters. — 14/7i.  We  called  this  morning 
on  two  orphan  sisters,  whose  peculiar  circumstan- 
ces entitle  them  to  our  sympathies  and  aid.  They 
were  both  professedly  pious,  and  were  suffering 
from  sickness  and  extreme  indigence.  They  had 
obtained  a  bed-room  a  few  feet  square,  but  were 
obliged  to  occupy  it  entirely  without  fire,  and  -pay 
one  dollar  per  week  for  rent.  We  found  them 
engaged  in  sewing  on  fine  shirts,  which  they  were 
makir  g  at  sixty-two  cents  a  piece,  and  by  their 
utmost  endeavors  they  could  only  pay  for  their 
food  and  rent.  They  had  been  tenderly  educated, 
and  a  reverse  of  circumstances  alone  had  rendered 
them  familiar  with  want.  It  is  painful  to  see  the 
14* 


162 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


deserving  of  our  own  sex,  when  dependant  upon 
their  own  efforts,  oppressed  and  doomed  to  unre- 
quited toil.  Their  task  is  truly  a  hard  one,  and 
there  needs  to  be  a  radical  reform  on  this  score, 
before  the  rich  will  cease  to  grind  the  face  of  the 
poor. 

Visit  to  straw  factories. — April  I6th.  Much  of 
the  past  week  has  been  spent  in  visiting  the  dif- 
ferent straw  factories  of  the  city.  I  was  led  to 
this  labor  by  receiving  a  note  from  a  mother  in  the 
country,  desiring  me  to  find  a  situation  for  her 
daughters  to  acquire  the  trade,  where  their  asso- 
ciates would  be  select,  and  their  morals  fully 
guarded.  I  have  at  length  succeeded  in  comply- 
ing with  her  wishes. 

Yesterday  and  to-day  I  have  visited  twelve  dif- 
ferent factories,  and  conversed  with  about  three 
hundred  girls,  and  given  them  papers  and  tracts. 
Many  of  them  expressed  much  gratitude  for  the 
visit,  and  an  earnest  wish  that  it  might  be  repeat- 
ed. In  the  early  part  of  the  week  I  called  at  one 
of  ttiese  establishments,  where  about  one  hundred 
were  at  work.  There  had  been  considerable  se- 
riousness among  the  women  during  the  winter, 
and  some  were  recently  converted.  I  found  the 
agent  an  aged  Christian.  He  treated  me  with 
much  kindness,  and  allowed  me  a  given  time  to 
converse  and  pray  with  them.  The  Lord  gave 
me  freedom  of  utterance,  and  the  opportunity  was 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


163 


much  blessed.  When  the  allotted  time  had  ex- 
pired, each  one  resumed  her  work,  and  I  was  per- 
mitted to  pass  around  and  speak  to  such  as  I 
chose.  After  I  had  distributed  fifty  papers  (which 
were  all  that  I  had),  fifty  more  were  wanted,  and 
the  applicants  were  obliged  to  wait  till  another 
time.  One  of  the  young  girls,  who  manifested 
peculiar  interest  in  the  visit,  pressed  my  hand  as 
I  passed  her,  and  remarked  that  she  had  some- 
thing she  would  like  to  say  to  me,  concerning  the 
usefulness  of  the  Advocate  ;  but  as  this  was  not  a 
very  good  opportunity,  if  I  would  call  on  her  sis- 
ter, Miss  ,  W  street,  she  would  give  me, 

if  desired,  an  encouraging  fact. 

Salvation  of  an  orphan  through  means  of  the  Ad- 
vocate.— 

"  A  mother^s  love  who  can  supply, 
Or  guard  thee  with  z.  father'' s  eye." 

Called  this  afternoon  on  the  sister  above  alluded 
to,  and  received  the  following  relation  :  The  young 
lady  stated,  that  after  the  death  of  her  mother,  her 
father  married  a  gay  young  woman,  who  had  been 
trained  up  in  ignorance  of  household  cares,  and 
who  had  not  the  fear  of  God  before  her  eyes. 
Soon  after  this  he  failed  in  business,  and  removed 
from  Buffalo  to  this  city  ;  where  he  obtained  rooms 
for  himself  and  wife  in  an  expensive  boarding  es- 
tablishment near  Broadway.  At  the  suggestion 
of  the  stepmother,  herself  and  sister  were  placed 


164 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


at  service.  This  was  an  unexpected  descent. 
They  had  been  reared  in  the  lap  of  atlluence,  and 
now,  in  addition  to  the  loss  of  a  mother's  love,  to 
be  deprived  of  a  father's  home  and  care,  was  a 
withering  stroke.  Their  pride  was  deeply  wound- 
ed, and  their  young  affections  chilled.  There 
seemed  to  be  no  alternative,  as  they  were  both 
very  young  and  dependant.  Their  utter  discontent 
caused  them  to  remain  but  a  short  time  at  a  place, 
and  my  informant  stated,  that  after  having  been 
thus  situated  for  some  months,  she  formed  a  secret 
plan  for  being  revenged  upon  her  unnatural  father. 
She  had  seen  those  who  made  merchandise  of 
themselves  for  gain  ;  and  although  vicious  incli- 
nations were  not  yet  formed,  she  resolved  to  make 
the  same  reckless  sacrifice  of  herself  the  first 
favorable  opj)orlunity.  Her  strongest  inducement 
to  take  this  fatal  step  was  the  expectation  that  it 
would  cause  her  father  to  regret  that  he  had  neg- 
lected his  children,  and  left  them  to  the  care  of 
strangers. 

Her  resolution  was  deliberate,  and  would  doubt- 
less have  been  carried  into  execution,  but  for  the 
interposition  of  Providence.  She  was  laid  upon 
a  bed  of  sickness,  and  there,  had  time  for  reading 
and  reflection.  A  pious  lady  gave  her  the  Advo- 
cate, and  requested  her  to  read  it  carefully.  She 
did  so,  and  her  eyes  were  at  once  opened  to  hei 
imminent  danger  ;  and  those  sins  of  heart,  thai 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


165 


had  not  yet  been  breathed,  in  word  or  action,  stared 
her  in  the  face.  She  saw  the  loveliness  of  vir- 
tuous principles,  and  the  utter  deformity  of  impu- 
rity, and  wept  over  her  folly  and  guilt.  Her  for- 
mer purpose  was  abandoned,  and  another  took  its 
place.  She  resolved,  if  spared  to  recover,  she 
would  immediately  seek  an  interview  with  her 
younger  sister,  give  her  the  paper  that  had  saved 
her,  and  communicate  her  determination  to  pre- 
serve her  virtue  whatever  might  be  her  circum- 
stances. Her  health  was  restored,  and  the  anti- 
cipated meeting  with  her  sister  proved  an  affecting 
season.  Before  parting,  they  entered  into  a  sol- 
emn engagement  to  watch  over  themselves  and 
each  other,  and  also  agreed  to  inquire  for  some 
suitable  place  of  worship  ;  and  when  they  went 
out  at  all,  go  together  to  the  house  of  God.  In 
the  church  to  which  they  were  providentially  di- 
rected, an  interesting  revival  was  in  progress,  and 
both  soon  became  the  hopeful  subjects  of  renew- 
ing grace.  They  are  now  members  of  this 
church,  and  are  using  their  influence,  so  far  as 
it  extends,  in  promoting  the  cause  of  Christ. 
They  look  upon  the  Advocate  as  the  means,  in 
the  hands  of  God,  of  their  temporal  and  eternal 
salvation. 

Scenes  of  temptation. — 19th.  Visited  a  disrep- 
utable straw  factory,  supt^rintended  by  a  man  about 
twenty-five  years  of  age.    Fifty  girls  were  em- 


166 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


ployed  in  it.  I  askcJ  and  obtained  permission  to 
distribute  niy  trat-ts  and  papers,  but  to  my  surprise 
they  were  refused  by  every  individual.  1  then 
began  to  speak  to  them  kindly  about  the  concerns 
of  the  soul,  but  was  repulsed  and  taunted,  and 
obliged  to  leave  them  .with  a  heavy  heart.  I 
asked  the  agent  to  step  aside,  conversed  with  him 
faithfully,  and  stated  that  a  sense  of  duty  would 
oblige  me  to  report  his  factory,  and  warn  the  vir- 
tuous to  avoid  it.  He  was  rather  mute,  and  prob- 
ably glad  to  have  me  go  my  way.  I  knew  one  of 
the  young  women  whom  I  saw  there,  and  went  to 
her  mother  to  tell  her  my  views  of  the  character 
and  influence  of  the  companions  of  her  child. 

She  thanked  me  with  tears,  and  said,  M  had 

been  there  but  a  short  time,  and  she  would  take 
her  away  immediately.  I  recommended  her  to 
another  place,  that  I  knew  to  be  respectable  and 
safe.  She  gave  me  the  address  of  two  other 
mothers,  who  had  daughters  employed  in  the  fac- 
tory. I  went  also  to  them  with  the  same  message. 
One  was  absent,  and  the  other  replied  indiflerent- 
iy,  that  "  her  children  must  get  along  as  she  had, 
they  were  old  enough  to  take  care  of  themselves." 
I  resolved  to  distribute  my  tracts  and  papers  in  the 
neighborhood,  and  in  so  doing  ascertained  that 
this  factory  had  long  been  an  annoyance  to  the 
virtuous,  that  several  of  the  girls  made  themselves 
very  familiar  at  the  grocery  stores,  and  their  con 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


167 


duct  was  proverbially  bad.  At  one  of  these  places 
where  they  were  said  to  go  daily,  I  called  and 
left  some  copies  of  the  Advocate,  and  requested  a 
man,  who  said  he  was  a  father,  to  give  one  to 
each  when  they  came  again.  At  a  large  house 
opposite,  a  lady,  who  was  standing  at  the  door,  re- 
ceived, a  paper,  saying  she  was  unacquainted  with 
it,  but,  as  she  had  a  family,  she  would  like  to 
read  it.  She  observed  that  she  had  a  daughter  of 
seventeen  ;  but  she  considered  her  safe,  as  she 
had  been  kept  from  bad  company,  and  every  evil 
influence.  ***** 

Interview  with  a  convicted  sinner. — 20th.  By  re- 
quest, called  on  a  woman  in  P  street,  who 

was  convicted  of  her  lost  condition,  and  ready  to 
yield  to  hopeless  despair.  Her  mind  had  been 
impressed  by  receiving  a  letter  from  her  husband, 
who  went  south  on  business  sometime  since,  and 
had  been  converted  in  his  absence.  The  letter 
stated,  that  when  no  special  means  had  reached 
his  case,  he  was  awakened  by  witnessing  the  de- 
pravity of  his  fellow-men  around  him.  Profana- 
tion of  the  sabbath,  dealing  in  "  flesh,  and  blood, 
and  souls  of  men,"  licentiousness  in  high  and  low 
places,  and  other  abominations,  led  him  to  reflect, 
that  as  there  was  "  a  righteous  God,"  the  wicked 
could  not  go  unpunished.  It  was  pleasant  to  tell 
this  distressed  woman  of  the  love  of  Jesus,  and 
urge  her  with  tenderness  to  go  with  her  husband 
in  th/^  straight  and  narrow  way. 


168 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


CHAPTER  IX. 

Second  interview  with  Mrs,  —Painful  case.— The  Good 

Samaritan. — Visit  at  Bellevue. — Conversation  blessed  to  a 
mother.— Encouraging  facts. — Case  of  a  lost  daughter. — 
Another  do. — Interview  with  female  atheists. — A  death-bed 
scene. — Visit  at  the  city  prison. — Good  effect  of  right  in- 
struction.— Farther  account  of  Ellen  . — Case  of  conver- 
sion.— Family  assisted. 

Second  interview  with  Mrs.  . — 22d.  Called 

again  in  the  neighborhood  of  the  straw  factory, 
and  learned  that  the  daughter  of  17,  who  was  con- 
sidered safe  by  her  confiding  mother,  had  eloped 
with  one  of  the  men  belonging  to  the  store  alluded 
to.  He  was  a  boarder  in  this  family,  and  although 
he  had  betrayed  and  ruined  two  others,  his  charac- 
ter was  not  known  or  suspected  by  his  hostess, 
till  his  deadly  plot  had  been  effected.  I  called, 
also,  on  the  mother,  and  found  her  distressed  be- 
yond measure.  She  censured  herself  unsparing- 
ly, and  said  had  she  availed  herself  long  ago  of 
the  knowledge  I  had  recommended,  her  child,  in- 
stead of  being  lost,  might  now  have  been  with  her, 
virtuous  and  happy.  These  were  bitter  reflections, 
and  it  was  quite  vain  to  attempt  consolation. 
The  father  is  in  pursuit  of  the  seducer,  and  has 
threatened  his  life  if  he  succeeds  in  finding  him. 


WALKS   OP    USEFULNESS.  169 

Painful  case. — 23  J.  By  request,  accompanied  a 
pious  lady  to  an  abandoned  residence,  where  her 
niece  had  long  been  confmed  with  sickness.  We 
conversed  with  her  solemnly,  and  were  permitted 
to  spend  a  season  in  prayer.  There  remains 
little  probability  of  her  recovery.  She  is  the 
child  of  a  Christian  mother,  has  been  tenderly 
educated  and  excessively  indulged.  After  being 
left  an  orphan,  she  was  soon  in  the  road  to  ruin. 
Her  life  of  infamy  has  been  short  and  wretched, 
and  her  sun  is  about  to  set  in  the  darkness  of 
eternal  night.  She  stated  her  brief  history  in  bit- 
terness of  spirit,  and  when  it  v/as  finished,  entreat- 
ed us  to  go  on  in  the  cause  of  moral  reform,  say- 
ing we  were  not  aware  of  the  good  it  would  con- 
tinue to  accomplish.  She  observed  she  had  heard 
many  of  her  vile  associates  express  a  wish  that 
this  work  had  been  commenced  before  their  fall, 
as  in  that  case,  they  might  have  been  saved  from 
their  present  misery  and  guilt.  She  said  the  men 
who  came  there  all  talked  of  it,  and  manifested, 
in  various  ways,  their  hatred  and  fear  of  the  Ad- 
vocate. 

The  good  Samaritan. — 24/A.  In  the  block  visit- 
ed to-day,  I  found  a  large  building  containing  ten 
or  fifteen  colored  families.  I  was  kindly  received, 
and,  as  I  entered  one  room  after  another,  the  most 
perfect  neatness,  order,  and  industry,  w^ere  appa- 
rent. Several  of  the  women  said  they  were  mem- 
15 


170 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


bers  of  difTerent  churches,  and  were  always  glad 
to  get  tracts.  When  they  learned  I  had  the  Ad- 
vocate, they  were  eager  to  tell  me  they  had  seen 
and  read  it,  and  presently  an  elderly  woman  came 
to  me,  saying,  "  Missee,  God  send  you  here,"  and 
then  began  to  relate  the  case  of  a  poor  suflcrer, 
that  had  come  under  their  roof  for  protection. 

The  circumstances  were  these.  A  disorderly 
house  near  by,  occupied  by  white  persons,  had 
been  broken  up  by  the  watch  and  left  tcnantless, 
with  the  exception  of  a  sick  child,  who  was  unable 
to  get  away.  Hunger  and  thirst  "had  impelled  her 
to  crawl  to  the  door  of  this  colored  woman,  and 
ask  for  a  cup  of  water.  Inquiries  were  made,  and 
she  stated  the  worst  of  her  case.  Compassion 
for  her  as  a  fellow-being,  led  the  poor  woman  to 
take  her  in  for  the  day,  and,  although  she  felt  that 
she  could  not  have  her  there,  vile  and  diseased  as 
she  was,  yet  she  would  not  turn  her  into  the  street, 
and  was  perplexed,  not  knowing  what  could  be 
done  with  her.  I  conversed  with  her,  and  the 
purport  of  her  statement  was  that  her  parents 
were  intemperate  and  quarrelled,  and  that  she  was 
often  sent  away  to  sell  radishes.  Her  mind  was 
corrupted  by  other  bad  children,  and  finally  a  vile 
woman  spoke  flattering  words — ofl^ered  her  a  home 
and  made  her  an  easy  prey. 

This  was  some  two  years  since.  She  is  now 
fourteen,  and  it  is  scarcely  possible  to  conceive 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


171 


a  more  pitiable  object  of  crime,  suffering,  and 
wretchedness.  She  said  the  colored  woman  had 
talked  to  her  kindly,  and  told  her  of  her  sin ;  but 
no  one  had  ever  done  so  before.  She  wept  as 
she  confessed  that  she  had  been  a  bad  child,  and 
expressed  gratitude  that  any  should  try  to  do  hei 
good. 

I  sent  for  a  carriage,  defrayed  the  expense,  and 
had  her  conveyed  to  the  hospital. 

Visit  at  Bellevue. — Mai/  \Oth.  In  visiting  the 
Bellevue  hospital,  we  were  pained  to  find  the  vir- 
tuous and  the  vicious  placed  together  in  the  same 
apartments.  In  one  room  we  saw  on  the  one 
hand  the  abandoned  and  profligate,  groaning  under 
disease  of  body  and  remorse  of  spirit ;  on  the 
other  the  sick  and  deserving  poor,  weighed  do  we 
with  personal  suffering,  but  realizing  that  the  bit- 
terness of  their  cup  was  increased  by  a  class  of 
room-mates  fitted  only  for  the  society  of  lost  spirits. 

These  things  ought  not  so  to  be.  As  we  were 
leaving  the  room,  a  poor  girl  came  to  me  weep- 
ing immoderately,  and  entreated  me  not  to  con- 
sider her  guilty  of  crime  because  found  in  such 
company.  She  said  she  was  an  orphan,  and 
while  at  service  had  the  misfortune  to  scald  her 
arm  badly,  took  cold,  and  had  suffered  much.  She 
had  no  home  or  friends,  and  was  sent  to  Bellevue 
to  be  taken  care  of.  Her  arm  and  side  were  still 
in  a  dreadful  condition,  and  her  case  sufficiently 


172 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


wretched  to  awaken  sympathy  in  a  heart  of  ada^ 
mant.  As  we  retired  from  this  scene  of  sorrow 
we  were  sad,  and  could  appreciate  the  feelings  of 
the  wise  man  who  said,  "  he  praised  the  dead  that 
were  already  dead,  more  than  the  living  that  were 
yet  alive."  Could  forgetfulness  or  apathy  remove 
or  lessen  human  sufiering,  how  much  easier  would 
it  be  to  draw  a  veil  before  the  past,  and  then  divert 
or  banish  thought,  than  to  continue  to  behold  it  as  it 
is ;  search  for  the  cause  and  the  remedy,  and  though 
all  that  you  can  do,  is  but  as  a  drop  to  the  ocean, 
toil  on,  and  while  the  world  frowns  and  the  spirits 
sink,  look  upward  and  press  onward.  An  unusual 
number  of  the  inmates  of  Bellevue  seemed  to  be 
in  a  state  of  lunacy  or  idiocy,  and  were  probably, 
in  most  cases,  victims  of  that  crime,  which,  more 
than  all  others,  blots  out  mind  and  makes  a  wreck 
of  reason. 

23^7.  Two  young  women  whom  I  had  seen  at  a 
factory  called  on  me  this  morning,  wishing  to  sub- 
scribe for  the  Advocate.  They  observed  that  they 
thought  much  of  what  I  had  said  to  them,  and 
that  since  my  visit  many  of  the  girls  were  awaken- 
ed. I  had  a  season  of  prayer  with  them,  and  in- 
dulge the  hope  that  they  may  be  savingly  converted. 

Com-iersation  blessed  to  a  mother. — May  25th. 
By  request  of  a  friend,  called  on  a  young  woman 
for  whom  some  effort  had  been  made,  and  who  had 
at  times  appeared  serious.    There  were  obstacles 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS.  173 

in  the  way  of  her  conversion  not  easily  removed. 
Insubordination  to  parental  government  had  formed 
a  barrier  in  a  depraved  heart,  that  enabled  her  to 
resist  conviction,  and  press  on  in  the  downward 
road.  She  had  exchanged  a  good  situation,  where 
she  was  surrounded  by  Christian  influence,  for 
one  where  she  was  exposed  to  manifold  tempta- 
tions. After  kind  expostulation  and  warning,  and 
a  season  of  prayer,  I  left  her,  assured  that  if  she 
was  finally  lost,  it  would  be  of  her  own  deliberate 
choice.  At  a  former  visit  in  this  place,  some  time 
since,  I  found  in  one  apartment,  a  family  who 
were  temporally  and  spiritually  poor  and  wretched. 
The  husband,  on  account  of  illness,  was  unable  to 
move  his  limbs  ;  and  the  wife  had  thus  far  paid 
their  rent,  and  obtained  a  support  by  her  needle  ; 
but  her  eyes  were  now  badly  inflamed,  and  most 
of  their  effects  had  been  pawned,  and  the  prospect 
before  them  was  dark  enough.  My  sympathies 
were  enlisted ;  and  when  I  spoke  to  them  of  the 
Great  Physician,  his  compassion  and  love,  and 
their  perishing  need  of  such  a  friend,  the  man  was 
silent,  and  the  woman  seemed  disposed  to  reply, 
Imt  tears  choked  her  utterance.  I  was  surprised 
and  gratified  to  meet  this  poor  woman  to-day  ap- 
parently an  humble  Christian.  She  stated  that  the 
few  words  dropped  at  our  first  interview  were 
fastened  on  her  heart.  She  had  since  found  peace 
in  believing,  and  united  with  the  church.  Her 
15* 


174'  WALKS   OF  USr-F'JLNESS. 

husband  had  recovered  from  his  illness,  and,  in- 
stead of  adhering  to  his  infidel  principles,  was  in- 
quiring after  truth. 

Encouraging  facts. — IStlt.  In  passing  to  our 
district  this  morning,  met  another  girl  from  the 

factory  in  B  street,  who  had  just  taken  a  final 

leave  on  account  of  the  prevailing  immorality  of  tlie 
place.  Six  others  had  left  previously  for  the  same 
reason.  I  was  encouraged  by  this  result,  to  continue 
to  reprove  sin,  without  regard  to  consequences. 

Found  during  the  day  many  children,  who  may 
be  gathered  into  the  Sabbath  school ;  and  enlisted 
the  aid  of  several  teachers,  who  will  sec  that  their 
case  has  the  attention  it  merits. 

Case  of  a  lost  daughter. — 

"  Saw  ye  not  the  bitter  wo. 
Such  as  parents  only  know, 
When  the  boon  most  prized  below, 
Is  for  ever  gone  ? 
"  Pangs  like  these  have  thousands  felt- 
While  in  anguish  they  have  knelt, 
Tears  have  flowed  o'er  shame  and  guilt — 
But  have  flowed  in  vain." 

31^;.    Knowing  that  a  woman  in    street 

was  anxious  to  place  her  daughter  in  a  pious 
family,  and  having  obtained  a  desirable  situation, 
I  called  to  inform  her  concerning  it.  The  lady 
with  whom  we  placed  the  child  remarked,  that  an 
afflicted  mother,  to  whom  she  had  given  employ- 
ment, was  in  great  distress  about  a  lost  daughter, 
who  she  had  reason  to  suppose  was  incarcerated 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


175 


in  a  den  of  pollution.  At  her  suggestion,  I  called 
on  this  mother,  and  found  the  case  as  stated.  She 
was  a  widow,  and  had  several  children  dependant 
on  her  for  support.  Her  business  often  called  her 
away,  and  she  had  left  this  daughter  in  charge  of 
the  younger  ones  during  her  absence.  Some  vile 
girls  in  the  neighborhood  had  sought  her  society, 
and  took  the  opportunity  to  see  her  when  her 
mother  was  from  home.  She  left  clandestinely, 
and,  though  immediate  search  was  made,  was  not 
ibund,  till  her  character  was  gone  and  her  mind 
almost  a  wreck.  The  mother  reproached  herself 
for  not  giving  early  and  faithful  instruction,  and 
attempted  now  to  begin  the  work.  Her  labor 
proved  ineffectual,  for,  in  a  short  time,  the  reck- 
less girl  eloped  again,  and,  with  the  aid  of  her 
seducers,  laid  her  plans  to  elude  pursuit.  Many 
months  have  passed,  and  no  traces  of  her  hiding- 
place  have  been  obtained  till  this  week.  A  block 
of  houses  Avas  pointed  out  to  her  mother  where 
she  had  been  seen  several  times.  We  first  sought 
for  an  officer,  but  not  succeeding  in  obtaining  one, 
concluded  to  go  through  the  block,  and  if  she 
could  be  found,  devise  means  for  removing  her. 
The  buildings  were  chiefly  three  or  four  stories  in 
height,  and  looked  respectable  outwardly,  but  in- 
wardly were  full  (if  not  "  of  dead  men's  bones") 
of  all  uncleanness.  Almost  the  entire  mass  Avas 
occupied  by  those  "  whose  house  is  the  way  to 


176 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


hell,  going  down  to  the  chambers  of  death."  We 
told  our  simple  errand,  and  gave  tracts  and  papers 
to  those  who  could  read,  and  no  insult  was  offered 
us.  At  length  we  found  the  object  of  our  search, 
and — such  an  object  /    *    *    *  « 

Though  so  young,  and  once  lovely,  she  had 
l)een  drinking  and  fighting,  and  her  bloated  face 
and  swollen  eyes  bore  but  a  faint  resemblance  of 
her  former  self.  Her  mother  laid  her  hand  upon 
her,  and  exclaimed,  "  O  Maria  !  Maria  ! — can 
this  be  my  child  !"  and  then  withdrew  in  agony, 
and  covered  her  face  from  sight.  After  the  first 
burst  of  feeling  had  subsided,  we  succeeded  in 
taking  her  from  this  place  to  her  home.  Here 
was  another  scene  of  sorrow.  The  children  gath- 
ered round,  and  wept  at  seeing  their  mother's 
grief.  One  inquired,  "  Has  sister  Maria  been  to 
the  naughty  place  ?"  Another,  "  Why  do  you  cry 
so,  mamma  ?"  While  a  third  entreated,  "  Don't 
cry,  niamma,  I'll  be  good."  We  kneeled  and 
prayed  together — and  the  fact  that  there  was  a 
"  mercy-seat,"  tended  to  relieve,  in  some  degree, 
this  hour  of  tortured  feeling.  Arrangements  were 
made  for  placing  her  in  the  Refuge,  and  I  left 
with  a  heavy  heart. 

Scenes  like  this  are  of  common  occurrence  ; 
and  yet  a  heartless  world,  when  requested  to  con- 
sider them,  and  inquire  for  the  cause  and  the  rem- 
edy, turn  coldly  from  us,  and  perhaps  treat  oiu:  so- 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


177 


licitude  with  derision :  and  the  professed  Chris- 
tian too,  when  desired  by  a  fellow  Christian  to 
feel  and  act,  throws  out  some  stale  objection  (in 
common  use  with  the  libertine)  against  the  cause 
of  purity  ;  and,  with  an  averted  glance,  seems  dis- 
posed to  inquire,  Cain-like,  Am  I  my  brother's 
keeper  ?"  and  some,  too,  who  minister  at  the  sa- 
cred altar,  and  yet  are  influenced  more  by  the 
breath  of  popular  favor,  than  the  command  to  "  de- 
clare faithfully  all  the  words  of  the  law,"  when 
urged  to  exert  their  unmeasured  influence  to  pre- 
vent the  unavailing  tears,  and  sorrow,  and  anguish 
of  heart,  caused  by  the  fall  of  the  innocent !  con- 
sider, hesitate,  and  finally  exclaim,  "  Ah !  it's  a 
delicate  subject,  and  we  don't  know  how  to  touch 
it."  The  men,  too,  who  make  the  laws,  and  those 
commissioned  to  enforce  them,  think  the  subject 
so  very  delicate,  that  when  they  know  there  are 
fifty  houses  in  a  single  block,  whose  inmates,  aid- 
ed by  agents  in  every  portion  of  the  city,  are  con- 
stantly laboring,  vvith  all  the  assiduity  of  demons, 
to  destroy,  do  nothing  eflectual  to  disturb  them, 
especially  if  they  are  careful  to  keep  very  still. 
No  matter  how  many  heart-broken  fathers,  and 
mothers,  and  sisters,  are  sent  in  sorrow  to  the 
grave  by  their  instrumentality.  "  This  is  a  land 
of  liberty,"  say  they,  "  and  it  is  a  question  with 
us,  whether  anything  can  be  done."  If  the  public 
indignation  were  aroused  as  it  should  be,  and  a 


178 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


correct  public  sentiment  prevailed,  methinks  the 
question  would  soon  be  settled. 

Another. — June. — This  morning  another  inci- 
dent was  communicated,  similar  to  the  one  re- 
corded a  few  days  since.    H  was  placed  by 

her  widowed  mother  at  a  trade  at  the  age  of  four- 
teen. She  was  naturally  prepossessing,  and  when 
going  out  with  hats,  was  noticed  and  marked  by 
the  panders  of  vice.  Inducements  were  offered 
that  proved  a  successful  bait,  and  in  a  few  days 
she  was  a  A^oluntary  and  disgraced  outcast.  Her 
mother  learned  her  sin  and  shame,  and  followed 
her  even  to  the  doors  of  the  pit.  With  the  aid  of 
her  seducers  she  evaded  pursuit,  and  her  distress- 
ed parent  was  doomed  to  the  fixed  conviction,  that 
her  condition,  revolting  as  it  was,  would  in  all 
probability  change  from  bad  to  worse.  Said  this 
mother,  to  one  whose  prayers  she  craved,  "  You 
don't  know  my  misery  !  When  I  retire  at  night, 
I  think  my  child  may  be  without  a  shelter.  When 
I  sit  down  to  my  meals,  I  think  perhaps  my  child 
may  be  destitute,  or  sick,  and  friendless  ;  and  what 
is  worse,  that  she  is  sinning  with  a  high  hand 
against  her  Maker,  and  filling  up  her  measure  of 
iniquity.  O !  if  I  had  taught  her  early  to  avoid 
this  fatal  course !" 

A  few  evenings  since,  at  midnight,  this  mother 
heard  at  her  door  a  well-known  voice,  suing  for 
admittance.    She  turned  the  key,  and  met  the 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


179 


haggard  gaze  of  her  recreant  daughter.  She  was 
sick  and  friendless,  and  her  guilty  associates  had 
left  her  to  her  fate.  A  mother's  heart  was  still  open 
and  beat  with  intense  desire  to  receive  her  as  a 
penitent.  But,  alas  !  the  fetters  of  sin  are  not  easily- 
broken.  Wretchedness  and  want  had  alone  brought 
her  to  her  injured  parent,  and  with  returning 
strength  it  was  manifest  that  she  still  possessed 
an  unhumbled  heart.  The  Refuge  seemed  to  be 
the  last  resort,  and  measures  were  accordingly 
taken  to  confine  her  there. 

bth.  Was  sent  for  this  morning,  to  attend  to  the 
wants  of  a  sick  and  destitute  mother.  The  mes- 
senger who  came  led  the  way,  till  at  the  end  oC  a 
tedious  walk,  after  ascending  three  flights  of  stairs, 
we  found  ourselves  by  the  sick  bed  of  the  suflTerer. 
Several  children,  who  looked  to  her  for  their  daily 
allowance,  had  been  deprived,  by  her  sickness,  of 
their  food,  and  were  faint  with  hunger.  Present 
wants  were  supplied,  and  means  taken  to  furnish 
further  aid,  till  she  should  recover,  or  be  removed 
where  the  weary  are  at  rest. 

Female  Atheists. — 8M.  To-day  called  on  a  fam 
ily,  whom  I  had  visited  sometime  since,  and  found 
to  be  Atheists.  There  were  four  intelligent  young 
women,  who  boldly  asserted  that  they  did  not  be- 
lieve the  word  of  God,  had  no  copy  in  the  house, 
and  had  never  read  it.  To-day  I  carried  my  bi- 
ble, accosted  them  as  a  friend,  and  begged  per- 


/ 


180 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


mission  to  read  it.  They  began  to  cavil  and  object 
to  the  truth.  I  told  them  I  had  not  come  to  talk, 
but  to  read  ;  at  length  they  were  silent,  and  per- 
mitted me  to  read  aloud  three  chapters  in  the  Old, 
and  one  in  the  New  Testament.  Their  hearts 
seemed  to  be  steeled  against  the  truth,  and  yet  ii 
may  gain  a  lodgment  where  arguments  would  fail. 
Death-bed  scene. — 

"  Tlie  chamber  where  the  good  man  meets  his  fate 
Is  privileged  beyond  the  common  walks 
Of  virtuous  life,  quite  on  the  verge  of  heaven." 

Another  friend  had  requested  me  to  visit  a  sick 
relative  of  hers,  and  being  in  the  vicinity  of  her 
r^idence,  I  improved  this  opportunity.  Her  hus- 
band had  left  her  a  year  since,  to  do  business  at 
New  Orleans.  He  was  a  stranger  there,  and  suc- 
ceeded in  obtaining  the  hand  of  a  wealthy  lady  in 
marriage  ;  while  a  worthy  wife,  two  small  chil- 
dren, and  an  aged  mother,  were  left  to  loneliness 
and  want.  She  was  so  affected  by  this  unexpect- 
ed trial,  that  her  health  failed,  and  she  was  now 
in  the  very  last  stage  of  consumption  ;  yet  cling- 
ing with  all  a  mother's  tenderness  to  hrr  children, 
and  though  hoping  in  a  risen  Savior,  unable  to 
"  read  her  title  clear  to  mansions  in  the  skies." 

As  I  entered  her  room,  I  was  struck  with  the 
solemnity,  order,  and  quiet,  that  seemed  to  reign 
there.  A  few  neighbors  had  collected,  and  were 
ready  to  express  their  sympathy,  but  could  do 


^VALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


181 


nothing  more.  The  aged  mother,  with  the  infant 
in  her  arms,  was  bending  over  her  dying  child,  . 
and  trying  to  cool  her  parched  lips,  and  wipe 
away  the  death  sweat.  As  we  approached  the 
bed,  I  was  introduced  by  the  relative,  and  after 
saying  a  few  words,  we  engaged  in  prayer,  and 
it  seemed  truly  a  favored  hour,  "just  on  the  verge 
of  heaven."  As  we  rose,  prompted  by  fulness  of 
emotion,  I  sung,  in  a  low  voice, 

"  No  chilling  winds,  nor  pois'nous  breath, 
Shall  reach  that  peaceful  shore  ; 
Sickness  and  sorrow,  pain  and  death, 
Are  felt  and  feared  no  more." 

# 

As  the  sound  ceased,  she  opened  her  eyes,  and 
exclaimed,  "  Where  am  I  ?  It  seems  as  though 
the  room  were  filled  with  angels  !  I  shall  hear 
the  music  of  heaven  !  I  have  ventured  on  my 
Savior — ventured  all  upon  him.  I  can  leave  my 
helpless  babes  with  my  blessed  Master  !"  These 
and  similar  expressions  were  uttered,  till  her 
strength  was  exhausted.  Her  anxious  mother  was 
greatly  relieved  and  comforted,  for  her  despond- 
ing state  of  mind  had  added  much  to  this  cup  of 
sorrow. 

Visit  at  the  city  prison. — 27tk.  Visited  the  city 
prison  for  the  purpose  of  distributing  books  and 
tracts  among  the  prlscnets,  and  ascertaining  what 
disposal  had  bcfcr.  m.»de  of  those  given  out  the 
last  month.    We  we^-e  happy  to  learn,  that  in 


182 


WALKS   OF  USKFULNESS. 


most  cases  the  books  had  been  read  and  used  with 
care.  Those  to  whom  they  were  lent  to-day  also 
received  them  with  apparent  gratitude.  One  poor 
young  man,  who,  from  his  own  account,  had  been 
brought  there  by  mixing  with  bad  company,  said 
with  tears,  as  the  book  was  presented,  "  And  sure 
I'm  glad  to  get  it.  It's  dreary  enough  to  be  shut 
up  here  day  and  night,  with  no  one  to  speak  to, 
and  nothing  to  do."  Another — an  intelligent  fe- 
male, imprisoned  for  theft,  on  returning  the  book 
lent  the  preceding  month,  said  she  had  read  it  a 
great  deal,  and  hoped  it  had  done  her  good.  She 
1^  formed  some  new  resolutions,  and  intended  to 
lead  a  difTerent  life.  The  book  was  one  of  the 
American  Tract  Society's  liound  volumes.  Sev- 
eral were  found  reading  the  Bible,  and  one  man 
said  he  had  read  it  tliree  times  through  since  he 
had  been  in  his  cell.  Five  sabbath  scholars  were 
among  the  criminals,  and  gave  evidence  of  pos- 
sessing an  enlightened  conscience.  One,  a  lad  of 
seventeen,  appeared  to  be  enduring  the  pangs  of 
remorse — said  he  had  had  a  faithful  teacher,  and 
been  considered  a  good  scholar  for  five  years.  His 
mother  was  also  a  member  of  the  church,  and 
would  be  greatly  distressed  to  know  he  was  there. 
When  in  his  sixteenth  year,  he  thought  he  would 
■  like  to  be  a  sailor,  went  a  short  voyage,  and  on 
his  return,  some  evil-minded  companions  persuad- 
ed him  to  drink,  just  for  once^^^  and  by  this  means 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


183 


he  was  led  into  crime.  An  aged  woman,  who  had 
come  to  see  a  recreant  youth,  was  standing  by  the 
door  of  his  cell.  As  we  offered  him  a  tract,  we 
inquired  if  he  was  her  son.  "  No,"  she  replied, 
"  my  grandson,  and  I  am  the  only  friend  he  has 
left."  The  question  arose  in  our  minds,  might  not 
strict  parental  faithfulness,  in  the  Bible  sense  of 
the  term,  have  saved  him  and  his  companions  in 
guilt  from  this  gloomy  prison.  Before  leaving,  we 
made  arrangements  with  one  of  the  officers  to 
have  the  books  from  the  library  exchanged,  or 
given  out  among  the  prisoners  as  often  as  neces- 
sary till  the  return  of  the  committee. 
Good  effect  of  rigid  instruction. — 

"  Thrice  noble  youth  I    Like  Joseph  tliou  didst  spurn 
The  tempter's  arts  ;  by  heeding  wisdotn's  voice 
Didst  shun  that  fatal  rock  where  oft  are  wrecked 
Peace,  virtue,  knowledge,  life — yea  endless  Ufe." 

June  \2th.  Some  time  ago  I  received  a  note 
from  a  patron  of  our  paper,  and  on  going  to  her 
house  as  requested,  learned  that  she  wished  me  to 
visit  a  dwelling  occupied  by  those  who  lie  in  wait 
to  destroy.  She  stated  her  reasons  with  much 
agitation,  and  yet  with  feelings  of  gratitude,  that 
she  had  been  early  made  acquainted  with  the 
principles  of  purity,  and  enabled  so  to  inculcate 
them  in  her  family  that  their  effect  has  been  saving. 

She  informed  me  that  her  son,  who  was  a  clerk 

in  a  store  in  street,  received  a  call  from  a 

young  woman  a  few  days  since,  and  after  waiting 


184 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


on  her,  as  she  was  about  to  pay  for  the  gloves  and 
scarf  which  she  had  purchased,  she  remarked, 
that  the  only  bill  she  had  was  quite  large,  and  she 
would  not  trouble  him  to  change  it  ;  and  present- 
ing her  card,  requested  him  to  call  at  her  resi- 
dence with  the  articles.  Not  suspecting  her  pur- 
pose he  assented,  and  soon  after  rung  the  bell  at 
the  door,  and  was  shown  to  her  room  by  the  ser- 
vant. As  he  entered,  the  key  w^as  immediately 
turned,  and  he  was  made  to  understand  the  charac- 
ter of  the  house.  He  was  indignant  at  the  du- 
plicity that  had  been  practised  upon  him,  and  de- 
manded a  release,  assuring  her  that  he  utterly  loath- 
ed and  detested  her  character,  and  if  she  wished 
to  avoid  trouble  she  would  at  once  unlock  her  door. 
Finding  her  purpose  defeated,  and  fearing  his 
threats,  she  allowed  him  to  escape. 

This  noble  youth  came  to  his  mother  and  ac- 
quainted her  with  the  circumstances,  thanking  her 
with  tears  for  having  given  him  the  Advocate,  and 
for  the  faithful  and  judicious  instruction  that  had 
prepared  him  for  the  hour  of  temptation,  and  en- 
abled him  to  resist  a  device  that  might  have  ruined 
him  for  ever.  He  gave  her  the  card  presented  by 
the  temptress,  and  requested  her  to  give  it  to  the 
visiting  committee  of  the  F.  M.  R.  Society,  that 
they  might  see  and  converse  with  its  owner,  and 
entreat  her  to  desist  from  her  work  of  death.  The 
'Biother  gave  me  the  card,  and  wished  to  accom- 


1  WALKS   OF   USEFULNESS.  185 

pany  me,  but  seeing  her  strong  excitement,  and 
fearing  that  the  feelings  of  the  parent  might  over- 
come those  of  the  Christian,  I  achised  her  to  re- 
main at  home,  and  called  on  another  sister  to  ac- 
company me.  The  card  was  a  sure  passport,  and 
the  young  woman  was  taken  by  surprise.  When 
her  attempts  to  destroy  an  innocent  young  man 
were  alluded  to,  and  the  folly  and  wickedness  of 
her  course  pointed  out,  she  confessed  and  wept, 
but  said  it  was  too  late  to  talk  to  her ;  once  she 
might  have  been  saved,  but  now  she  was  a  repro- 
bate— lost  to  virtue  and  lost  to  God.  She  was  en- 
treated in  vain  to  forsake  her  sins  and  go  to  the 
asylum,  or  some  place  where  she  would  lead  a 
different  life.  She  gave  me  the  street  and  num- 
ber where  her  mother  and  sisters  lived,  and  desired 
me  to  go  and  talk  to  them,  and  warn  her  sisters 
from  her,  not  to  follow  her  steps.  I  have  not 
found  it  convenient  to  do  so  until  this  P.  M.  The 
mother  was  at  home,  and  treated  me  with  respect 
and  seemed  grateful  for  the  visit.  She  said,  her 
"  child  had  become  vile  through  her  neglect.  She 
had  indulged  her  in  disobedience  in  childhood,  and 
when  in  her  '  teens'  she  would  dress  and  have  her 
own  way,  and  she  could  not  help  it."  I  found  her 
extremely  ignorant  of  parental  duty,  and  she  con- 
fessed that  she  could  not  have  been  more  so,  had 
she  been  trained  up  among  heathen.  She  seemed 
much  affected,  and  said  this  was  the  first  time  in 
16* 


186 


WALKS   OF  L'SEFULXESS. 


her  life  that  a  Christian  friend  had  ever  come  to 
talk  to  her.  She  said  her  daughter's  conduct  was 
breaking  her  heart,  and  she  trembled  for  the 
others,  and  knew  not  what  to  do  with  them.  I 
advised  her  to  send  them  away,  and  proposed  a 
plan,  that  with  the  blessing  of  God,  may  save  them 
in  future  from  a  vile  sister's  influence. 

Ellen  . — July  \9th.  I  have  to-day,  for  the 

second  time,    seen    Ellen  ,  the  ministers 

daughter  alluded  to  some  days  since.  The  young 
man  has  been  made  a  subject  of  special  prayer, 
both  in  the  closet  and  social  circle,  since  our 
knowledge  of  his  circumstances  ;  and  his  anxious 
parents  have*  of  late  been  comforted  by  knowing 
that  his  visits  are  discontinued. 

As  I  approached  the  house  my  heart  sank  with- 
in me,  and  I  would  fain  have  retreated,  but  a  sense 
of  duty  impelled  me  to  proceed.  Near  the  door  I 
observed  a  young  man  who  had  evidently  marked 
my  course  for  some  distance,  and  who  seemed  dis- 
posed to  move  me  by  reproachful  looks,  to  desist 
from  my  purpose.  I  rang  the  bell,  and  inquired 
for  the  woman  of  the  house.  Being  informed 
that  she  had  removed,  I  then  asked  to  see  the 
present  mistress.  A  young  woman  who  had  heard 
my  voice  came  into  the  hall,  saying  she  was  the 
person  for  whom  I  inquired.  It  was  rather  dark, 
and  my  sight  being  dim,  I  did  not  recognise  her, 
and  remarked,  as  if  to  a  stranger,  that  "  one  whom 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


187 


I  saw  last  winter,  a  young  woman,  daughter  of  a 
clerg}'man  from  the  south,  lived  here  ;  she  had" 
proved  the  ruin  of  a  promising  youth,  who  was 
breaking  the  hearts  of  beloved  sisters,  and  bring- 
ing down  the  gray  hairs  of  his  parents  with  sor- 
row to  the  grave.  I  wished  to  learn  where  she 
was,  and  have  one  more  interview  with  her ;  can 
you  tell  me,"  said  I,  "  where  she  has  gone  ?"  The 
woman  did  not  answer,  but  asked  me  to  walk  up 
stairs.  Leading  the  way,  she  beckoned  me  to 
follow,  and  I  did  so,  but  vvith  a  degree  of  fear  not 
easily  overcome.  She  showed  me  to  a  seat  upon 
a  sofa,  and,  placing  herself  beside  me,  remarked, 
"  When  I  sit  down  by  a  pious  person  of  your  age, 
it  occasions  sad  feelings.  It  brings  to  mind  my 
early  privileges,  and  awakens  painful  recollec- 
tions." 

I  gazed  upon  her  with  astonishment,  and  said, 

"  Is  not  this  Ellen  Did  I  not  see  you  last 

winter  ?"  "  Yes,"  she  replied,  "  the  same  ;  and  I 
remember  your  visit  and  your  faithfulness."  I 
then  desired  her  to  tell  me  what  had  induced 
young  Mr.  to  forsake  her  house.  She  con- 
sented, and  briefly  stated  that  my  conversation  and 
tears,  at  our  last  interview,  and  the  grief  he  was 
causing  his  worthy  parents  and  friends,  troubled 
her  conscience,  and  she  could  not  rest  till  she  had 
made  a  fixed  decision  to  remove  him  at  once  and 
for  ever. 


188 


^\'^L\^s  or  usefulness. 


She  said  her  early  religious  impressions  were 
not  all  forgotten,  and  bad  as  she  was,  she  had  yet 
some  principle  remaining — there  iiad,  as  yet,  been 
a  point  beyond  which  she  could  not  go.  Said  she 
was  resolved  never  again  to  accept  or  encourage 
the  proffered  friei;idship  of  any  one  who  had  a  fa- 
ther, mother,  wife,  or  sisters,  to  weep  over  his  fall. 
She  had  also  detertnined  from  the  time  she  became 
mistress  of  the  establishment,  that  the  innocent 
should  not  be  ruined  within  her  premises.  A  case 
occurred  a  few  days  since  that  put  this  purpose  to 
the  test.  A  gentleman  (!)  called  with  a  very  young 
lady,  and  requested  a  room  for  an  hour.  She  gave 
him  the  one  where  wc  were  sitting.  Presently 
cries  for  help  attracted  her  attention,  and  she  went 
to  the  door,  and  heard  distinctly  from  a  tremulous 
voice,  "  No,  I'll  die  before  I'll  yield!  Did  you  not 
tell  my  mother  you'd  take  a  walk  to  the  gardens, 
and  bring  me  home  safe  ?  and  then  you  said  you 
just  wished  me  to  call  with  you  and  see  your  aunt. 
This  lady  is  too  young  to  be  your  aunt.  Did  you 
mean  to  ruin  me  ?  0  my  mother  !  How  shall  1 
get  to  my  mother  ?"  Ellen  demanded  admittance, 
and  on  being  denied,  burst  the  door  open  instant- 
ly. (She  pointed  to  the  broken  lock,  which  I 
readily  perceived  had  been  broken  by  violence.) 
The  man  threatened  to  kill  her.  She  told  him  to 
retire  immediately  or  he  would  be  in  the  hands  of 
the  police,  and  his  name  exposed.  He  then  offered 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


189 


her  a  hundred-dollar  bill  to  leave  the  room.  She 
rejected  it,  and  ordered  him  out  of  the  house.  He 
went  reluctantly,  after  which  she  accompanied  the 
child,  who  was  but  thirteen  years  of  age,  to  her 
mother.  *  *  *  *  When  asked  if  she  ever 
read  the  Bible,  she  replied  in  the  negative,  said 
she  could  not  read  it  here  ;  every  word  Avould  be 
as  a  poisoned  arrow,  and  would  drink  up  her 
spirits.  She  professed  to  believe  the  Bible,  and 
said  it  was  not  her  intention  to  end  her  days  in 
her  present  course. 

To  see  one  so  young,  possessed  of  such  an  in- 
tellect, and  for  whom  nature  and  education  have 
done  so  much,  a  voluntary  victim  of  crimes  that 
throw  a  pall  over  every  trait  of  loveliness,  affected 
my  heart  most  deeply,  and  I  felt  constrained,  had 
it  been  possible,  to  "pull  her  out  of  the  fire."  I 
entreated  her  to  break  off  at  once,  and  escape  for 
her  life !  She  af;ked  what  she  could  do.  She 
"  could  not  associate  with  the  lower  classes  in  so- 
ciety, and  the  virtuous  of  her  own  (former)  stand- 
ing, would  not  admit  her  to  their  presence  ;  and  to 
live  alone,"  she  continued,  "  without  being  a  Chris- 
tian, the  ghost  of  my  past  sins  w^ould  sink  me  in 
despair !" 

I  pointed  out  what  I  considered  the  only  re- 
maining door  of  hope.  She  thanked  me  respect- 
fully for  my  plainness  ;  and  during  our  whole  con- 
versation her  deportment  was  such  as  is  very  scl- 


190 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


dora  met  with  in  houses  of  this  character.  There 
are  many  circumstances  connected  with  her  his- 
tory that  could  not  fail  to  excite  interest,  which 
must  be  omitted  for  special  reasons.  She  admit- 
ted that  the  statements  hitherto  given  concerning 
her  were  correct. 

A  long  experience  has  taught  me  that  in  most 
cases  persons  of  this  class  are  not  to  be  trusted. 
But  in  this  instance,  there  is  not  a  doubt  on  my 
mind  that  during  our  interview  the  naked  truth 
was  elicited  without  evasion  or  concealment.  Her 
feelings  were  evidently  tender,  and  my  age  and 
manner  strongly  reminded  her  of  a  kind  mother 
and  tender  father,  injured  and  bereaved  by  her  par- 
ricidal hand.  This  favored  opportunity  has  led 
me  more  than  ever  to  yearn  over  her  condition, 
and  long  for  her  rescue.  As  she  is  a  child  of  the 
covenant,  is  there  not  a  possihility  that  she  may 
yet  be  saved  ?  Shall  she  not  be  remembered  at 
the  mercy-seat,  together  with  the  deluded  youth, 
whose  course  is  already  partially  arrested,  as  we 
trust,  in  answer  to  prayer  ? 

Case  of  conversion . — July  24th.    Passing  from 

 street  to  Broadway,  a  lady  just  leaving  her 

door  came  up  and  accosted  me  familiarly,  saying 
with  earnestness,  "  I'm  very  glad  to  see  you." 
Not  recollecting  her,  I  inquired  where  we  had 
met  before.  She  replied  that  I  had  called  upon 
her  more  than  a  year  since  with  tracts  and  papers, 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


191 


conversed,  and  prayed  with  her,  and  that  the  in- 
terview made  such  an  impression  upon  her  mind, 
that  she  found  no  peace  or  rest  until,  as  she 
trusts,  her  heart  was  given  to  Christ.  She  im- 
portuned me  to  return  with  her  to  her  house,  and 
said  she  had  often  desired  to  see  me  again,  but  as 
I  came  and  went  as  a  stranger,  she  knew  not 
where  to  apply  to  learn  my  residence.  She  had 
made  a  profession  of  religion,  and  was  devoting 
herself  to  Avorks  of  active  piety  ;  had  also  become 
settled  in  life  with  flattering  prospects  since  I  saw 
her.  She  now  wished  to  subscribe  for  the  Advo- 
cate, and  was  ready  to  aid  the  cause  by  her  influ- 
ence and  her  prayers.  The  circumstances  of  my 
first  visit  to  this  young  friend  were  called  to  mind 
by  this  delightful  and  unexpected  result;  and, per- 
haps, it  may  not  be  amiss  to  state  them,  for  the 
purpose  of  showing  the  connexion  between  the 
means  and  the  end,  and  that  with  the  blessing  of 
God,  "  bread  cast  upon  the  waters  is  found  again 
after  many  days." 

I  went  out  in  the  morning  with  another  devoted 
member  of  the  committee,  and  as  our  district  was 
large,  we  divided  the  ground,  purposing  only  to 
meet  occasionally  in  the  prosecution  of  our  work. 
Soon  after  we  parted,  I  entered  a  richly  funiished 
residente,  and  inquired  for  the  lady  of  the  house. 
A  young  woman  in  deep  mourning  answered  to 
the  inquiry,  and  informed  me  that  her  mother  had 


192 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


been  recently  removed  by  death,  and  being  the 
eldest  daughter,  she  had  charge  of  the  family.  I 
spoke  to  her  of  the  voice  of  God  in  her  affliction, 
her  present  responsibilities  and  need  of  divine 
grace  to  fit  her  for  her  important  station.  She 
jseemed  affected  and  wept.  By  this  time  a  younger 
sister  had  taken  a  seat  on  the  sofa  beside  iis,  and 
was  listening  with  interest  to  the  conversation. 
They  accepted  of  a  tract  and  the  Advocate,  and 
one  remarked,  that  she  had  seen  the  paper  and 
was  pleased  with  it,  but  her  father  was  unwilling 
they  should  read  it,  and  they  did  not  like  to  dis- 
please him.  They  seemed  surprised  that  I  should 
be  willing  to  go  among  strangers  as  I  had  come 
there,  especially  when  I  told  them  that  I  went  to 
every  house,  and  made  it  also  a  part  of  my  busi- 
ness to  speak  to  each  individual  about  the  inter- 
ests of  the  soul.  The  younger  sister  remarked, 
that  she  "  should  think  it  must  be  a  very  great 
cross  to  go  into  every  house.  There  was  a  house 
the  second  door  from  them,  where  fifteen  or  twenty 
girls  were  kept,  some  of  whom  were  young  and 
very  beautiful,  but  given  up  to  vice."  Speaking 
further  of  this  case  she  said,  "  At  first  when  we 
saw  them  in  the  yard,  or  at  their  door  or  windows, 
it  was  extremely  painful  to  our  feelings — now  it 
is  becoming  rather  a  thing  of  course,  and^turiosity 
prompts  us  to  watch  their  movements,  and  when 


WALKS  OF  rSKFULNESS. 


193 


they  are  all  dressed  for  the  afternoon,  their  ap- 
pearance is  quite  imposing." 

My  heart  was  moved  by  this  brief  narration, 
and  I  spoke  to  them  in  words  to  this  efFcct:  "You 
say  you've  no  mother,  and  your  father  is  not 
•  a  Christian — has  no  family  altar ;  you  devote 
much  of  your  time  to  dress  and  reading  novels. 
How  you  need  the  grace  of  God,  to  keep  you ! 
Nothing  but  his  mercy  makes  you  differ  from  those 
of  whom  you  have  been  speaking,  and  nothing 
else  can  keep  you  from  the  same  course.  You 
acknowledge  that  curiosity  rather  than  unqualified 
disgust  is  now  awakened,  and  it  is  not  impossible 
that  a  train  of  circumstances  will  place  you  where 
you  may  lose  much  of  that  abhorrence  of  sin 
which  you  now  feel  (unless  you  become  Chris- 
tians)." In  offering  prayer  I  had  great  freedom 
of  utterance,  and  they  were  both  tenderly  affected. 
I  entreated  them  to  read  their  bibles  and  to  pray 
for  themselves,  and  as  they  valued  their  virtue, 
cherish  the  strictest  purity  of  thought,  and  seek 
Christ  and  his  salvation,  if  they  would  be  found 
among  the  pure  in  heart  in  heaven.  This  cir- 
cumstance, though  interesting  at  the  time,  was 
nothing  more  than  ordinary,  and  I  had  quite  for- 
gotten it,  until  it  was  brought  to  mind  by  the  elder 
sister,  who  accosted  me  as  before  stated.  Per- 
haps I  should  add,  that  the  house  where  the  girls 
were  kept  was  twice  visited,  tracts  and  papers 
17 


194 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


given,  the  Bible  read,  and  personal  conversation 
held  with  most  of  the  inmates.  The  creature 
who  stood  at  the  head  of  the  establishment  was 
the  mother  of  the  "  Miss  Missouri,"  well-known 
by  report.  The  last  time  I  called,  she  ordered 
me  from  her  house  with  much  anger,  saying  I  had  »- 
"  set  all  her  girls  crazy,  and  she  should  not  be 
able  to  keep  them  together  if  such  visiters  were 
allowed  to  come  there." 

As  the  daughter  of  the  clergyman  referred  to  in  the 
last  report  continued  to  intrude  upon  my  thoughts, 
I  made  my  way  to  her  house  for  the  purpose  of 
reading  and  prayer.  Mel  with  no  obstacle — on  the 
contrary,  all  the  inmates  were  called  together,  and 
I  was  permitted  to  talk  and  pray  with  them,  and 
to  witness  among  them  such  a  state  of  feeling  as 
may  sometimes  be  seen  in  an  inquiry-room,  when 
the  impenitent  have  their  sins  set  in  order  before 
them.  But,  notwithstanding  their  tears,  the  ob- 
stacles to  their  conversion  are  such  as  to  try  the 
faith  of  the  Christian  to  the  utmost.  We  find 
ground  of  encouragement  only  in  the  assurance, 
"  with  God  all  things  are  possible." 

Family  assisted. — Aug.  3d.  Having  occasion 
to  revisit  the  block  in  G  street,  of  which  men- 
tion was  made  in  the  Advocate  of  July  1st,  I 
learned  that  apartments  occupied  by  a  family  from 
the  coimtr)'^  were  kept  so  closely  shut  as  to  occa- 
sion remark.  Suspecting /?ar  might  be  the  cause. 


WALKS  OF  DSEFULNESS. 


195 


I  went  to  the  door,  and  by  speaking  through  the 
key-hole,  and  giving  assurance  that  I  wished  to 
enter  as  a  friend,  the  door  was  opened.  As  soon  as 
my  motive  was  understood,  my  visit  was  welcomed 
with  tears.  I  found  an  unhappy  mother  and  sev- 
eral interestinor  children,  who  beingf  aware  of  the 
character  of  their  neighbors,  had  confined  them- 
selves so  closely  that  they  suffered  for  want  of 
air  and  light.  The  husband  and  father  was  in- 
temperate— had  placed  his  family  here  in  May, 
not  knowing  or  caring  about  the  immorality  of  the 
neighborhood.  They  had  no  means  to  go  else- 
where, and  were  obliged  to  depend  on  their  inhu- 
man protector  for  a  pittance  barely  sufficient  to 
support  life.  The  mother  said,  if  she  could  get 
work  it  w^ould  help  them  some,  but  she  was  a 
stranger,  and  being  destitute  of  clothing,  her  per- 
sonal appearance  was  against  her.  Her  eldest 
daughter  was  able  to  earn  her  living,  but  she  found 
herself  so  surrounded  by  the  vile,  that  she  was 
afraid  to  trust  her  beyond  her  sight.  The  child 
needed  clothing,  which  was  provided — also  a  good 
place,  where  she  could  work  and  help  herself  and 
her  mother.  This  seemed  to  afford  some  relief, 
and  she  went  with  a  glad  heart  to  a  vacant  situa- 
tion in  a  pious  family.  She  is  amiable  and  pre- 
possessing, and  I  am  ready  to  believe  will  reward 
any  effort  bestowed  upon  her.  It  is  enough  to 
awaken  sympathy  in  the  hardest  heart,  to  reflect 


196 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


for  a  moment  upon  the  condition  of  tlie  hundreds 
of  poor,  but  virtuous  families,  and  helpless  chil- 
dren that  are  thrown  in  among  the  vicious — and 
in  addition  to  their  other  sufferings,  obliged  to  en- 
dure a  daily  martyrdom  of  feeling,  unpitied  and 
alone.  Shall  no  law  ever  be  framed  and"  enforced, 
that  will  shut  up  these  gateways  to  death  ? 

8^A.  Have  seen  the  young  girl  for  whom  a  place 
was  provided  last  week.  She  gives  satisfaction 
to  her  employers,  and  had  received  from  her  wa- 
ges sufficient  to  pay  for  the  shoes  given  her.  She 
expressed  many  thanks,  and  on  offering  her  dol- 
lar, and  seeing  me  hesitate,  said,  "  Do  take  it, 
ma'am,  and  when  you  find  another  poor  girl  in  my 
case,  give  it  to  her." 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


197 


CHAPTER  X 

Conversion  of  a  mother  and  her  son. — A  scene  to  make  the 
heart  ache. — Strength  of  vicious  habits. — Efforts  for  an 
afflicted  family. — Guilt  betrayed. — Prayer  meeting  for  moth- 
ers.— A  ruinpd  daughter. — Second  mterview  with  the  family 
of  an  infidel. — Sanctified  affliction. — Entreaties  of  a  cliild — 
Pleasing  result. — Example  of  Christian  fortitude. — Care  for 
the  stranger. 

Conversion   of  a   mother   and   son. — A  few 

days  since  met  with  a  Mrs.  B  ,  who  had 

taken  much  pains  to  learn  my  residence,  that  she 
might  communicate  what  the  Lord  had  done  both 
for  herself  and  her  wayward  son.  I  first  met  her 
near  two  years  since  at  a  green-house,  employed 
in  the  occupation  of  selling  seeds  and  flowers. 
While  conversing  with  her  respecting  her  re- 
ligious principles  and  manner  of  life,  she  confess- 
ed that  she  attended  no  church,  but  disregarded 
the  Sabbath  and  made  it  a  day  of  labor.  When 
asked  if  she  was  happy,  she  replied,  "  Far  from 
it and  alluded  to  her  only  son  as  being  intempe- 
rate and  a  great  grief  to  her.  She  was  advised 
to  pursue  a  diflerent  course  ;  and  a  plan  suggested 
by  which  she  could  obtain  an  honest  livelihood 
without  breaking  the  command  of  God.  She 
listened  to  this  counsel,  and  as  the  son  continued 
17* 


198 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


incorrigible,  he  was  left  to  take  care  of  himself. 
Feeling  the  want  of  a  home  he  went  to  sea.  At 
length,  on  account  of  his  misconduct  he  was  dis- 
missed by  his  employer,  and  w  ent  on  board  an- 
other vessel,  commanded  by  a  temperance  captain. 
His  mother  had  become  deeply  anxious  about  her 
soul  previous  to  his  leaving,  and,  in  arranging  his 
chest,  had  remembered  to  place  a  Bible  with  his 
other  stores.  Thus  far  it  had  been  disregarded, 
and  he  continued  a  profane  and  reckless  youth. 
But  it  pleased  the  Lord  to  arrest  him  in  his  mad 
career.  A  severe  fall  disabled  him  and  confined 
him  to  his  berth.  In  his  trouble  he  called  upon 
the  Lord,  read  and  believed  his  word,  and  was 
soon  found  at  tlic  feet  of  Jesus,  clothed  and  in  his 
right  mind.  He  had  recently  returned  and  found 
a  praying  Christian  mother,  and  both  parent  and 
child  rejoiced  together  in  that  liberty  wherewith 
Christ  had  made  them  free.  The  mother,  after 
relating  these  and  other  interesting  incidents,  ex- 
pressed, in  the  warmest  terms,  her  gratitude  that  I 
was  led  to  reprove  and  counsel  her. 
A  scene  to  make  the  heart  ache. — 

Parents  of  the  rising  race — 
Shield  your  offspring  from  disgrace, 
Guide  them  in  the  paths  of  peace, 
Paths  to  virtue  dear. 

In  the  wildering  maze  of  life, 
'Mid  its  hopes  and  'mid  its  strife, 
'Mid  its  scenes  with  danger  rife, 

Teach  them  to  beware. 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


199 


Bid  them  to  be  pure  in  heart, 
Bid  them  choose  the  better  part, 
Bid  them  shun  the  envenomed  dart — 
Flee  the  tempter's  snare. 

Oct.  8th.  A  member  of  the  church  in  street 

called  this  morning,  saying  she  had  just  received 
a  note  through  the  post-office  from  one  of  her 
daughters,  who  had  been  changing  places  from 
one  house  of  infamy  to  another  for  two  ye^irs  past, 
during  which  time  she  had  not  seen  her,  although 
she  had  taken  every  possible  means  to  do  so.  She 
learned  from  the  note  that  she  was  very  ill,  and 
was  about  to  be  removed  to  Bellevue  to  die.  She 
expressed  a  wish  to  see  her  mother  before  leaving 
the  world,  and  desired  her  to  come  to  the  place 
where  she  was.  The  afflicted  woman  was  un- 
willing to  go  alone,  and  requested  me  to  accom- 
pany her.  We  went  immediately  to  the  place, 
and  found  it  a  filthy  miserable  abode,  occupied  by 
about  a  dozen  of  the  lowest  class  of  the  abandon- 
ed. Though  our  hearts  sickened  at  every  step, 
we  went  forward  to  the  attic.  Here  the  strength 
of  the  mother  seemed  to  fail  her,  and  she  sunk 
down  exhausted  and  overcome.  When  she  could 
give  utterance  to  words,  she  exclaimed,  "  If  this  is 
my  child,  I  don't  know  her  !"  The  change  was 
indeed  great.  Her  ghastly,  bloated,  diseased  face, 
was  a  sad  spectacle  for  a  fellow-being  to  look 
upon,  much  more  for  a  mother.  The  child  wept, 
but  was  unable  to  speak.    It  would  be  utterly  in 


200 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


vain  to  attempt  to  describe  the  interview  ;  it  must 
be  left  here  for  the  imagination  to  fill  up  the  pic- 
ture. The  mother  blamed  herself  for  wrong  train- 
ing and  too  much  indulgence.  With  the  hope  of 
making  some  reparation  she  was  induced  to  take 
the  poor  object  to  her  home — pray  with,  and  for 
her — and  while  the  remnant  of  life  was  wasting, 
try  to  benefit  her  undying  soul.  As  the  carriage 
drove  up,  an  unmarried  sister,  who  was  a  virtuous 
young  lady,  met  them  at  the  door,  and  with  re- 
proachful looks  and  words  expostulated.  The 
mother  gave  her  reasons,  and  though  her  heart 
was  agonized,  was  decided  in  her  course. 

Strength  of  vicious  habits. — I  returned  to  the 
place  whence  we  came,  for  the  purpose  of  taking 
one  of  the  youngest  inmates  to  the  Refuge. 
She  had  professed  a  wish  to  abandon  her  wretched 
life,  and  go  to  any  place  where  she  might  do  bet- 
ter. I  went  with  her  nearly  two  miles,  till  we  came 
in  sight  of  the  building,  when  suddenly  she  start- 
ed, and  ran  from  me  with  all  possible  speed.  It 
was  out  of  my  power  to  overtake  or  bring  her 
back,  and  I  stood  still  for  a  moment,  reflecting  that 
I  had  honestly  done  what  I  could  to  save  her.  I 
now  saw  it  had  proved  fruitless,  but  thought,  per- 
haps, the  motive  would  be  accepted. 

Afflicted  family. — Before  going  into  the  country 
in  August,  I  met  with  a  poor,  but  respectable 
family,  and  found  the  husband  and  father  in  the 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


201 


last  stage  of  consumption.  By  means  of  a  small 
donation  that  had  been  given  to  aid  the  visiting 
committee,  I  was  enabled  to  relieve  their  present 
wants,  and  to  gain  their  entire  confidence.  There 
were  five  small  children  who  had  been  hitherto 
wholly  dependant  upon  their  father  for  support.  I 
ascertained  that  the  family  knew  nothing  of  the 
influence  of  Christianity,  or  the  consolations  of  re- 
ligion. I  visited  them  frequently  for  several  days 
— prayed  with  them,  and  endeavored  to  enlist  some 
of  their  wealthy  neighbors  in  their  behalf,  so  that 
they  might  not  be  neglected  after  I  had  left.  At 
one  time,  while  there,  a  little  child  ran  to  his 
mother  and  began  to  cry  for  a  piece  of  bread ;  he 
was  told  with  tenderness  that  there  was  none  for 
him.  I  was  affected  and  thinking  it  best  to  im- 
prove the  incident,  turned  to  his  mother,  saying, 
"  You  know  the  Bible  says,  '  If  ye,  being  evil, 
know  how  to  give  good  gifts  to  your  children,  how 
much  more  shall  your  heavenly  Father  give  the 
Holy  Spirit  to  them  that  ask  him  V  not  only  to  con- 
vict but  to  convert.  You  love  your  child,  Avould 
give  it  bread  if  you  had  it.  Now  here  are  the 
words  of  Christ;  do  you  believe  them?"  She 
wept,  and  said  she  was  convicted  of  sin,  and  felt 
her  need  of  salvation.  The  sick  man,  who  was 
listening  to  the  conversation  also  seemed  affected. 

After  this  interview  I  was  absent  for  some 
weeks,  and  on  my  return  learned  that  the  husband 


202 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


was  dead — that  ilie  last  days  of  his  life  were 
spent  in  prayer  and  supplication,  and  expressions 
of  deep  regret  that  he  had  deferred  repentance 
when  in  health.  The  wife  professes  to  have 
found  the  Savior,  and  gives  evidence  of  a  change 
of  heart.  Her  temporal  condition  was  cheerless 
and  her  prospect  still  darker  for  the  ensuing  win- 
ter. A  relative  in  the  country  had  oflered  her  a 
home,  but  she  had  not  the  means  of  going  to  the 
place.  By  application  to  a  few  benevolent  indi- 
viduals, sufHcient  aid  was  obtained  to  pay  her  fare, 
and  the  arrangements  are  now  made  for  her  leaving. 

Guilt  betrayed. — Oct.  24l/i.  A  lady  called  to 
solicit  counsel  and  assistance.  She  had  an  un- 
faithful husband,  and  for  the  sake  of  her  children 
and  herself,  she  wished  to  take  a  judicious  course, 
whatever  might  be  the  sacrifice.  She  had  grieved 
over  his  guilt,  but  had  sometimes  told  him  his  sin 
might  find  him  out  ere  he  was  aware  of  it.  He 
affected  to  despise  the  Advocate,  and  its  disclo- 
sures, and  often  used  reproachful  language  con- 
cerning it.  She  had  watched  him  from  time  to 
time,  and  was  well  convinced  that  he  made  fre- 
quent calls  at  No.  — ,  and  had  seen  him  enter  at 
this  No.,  on  her  way  to  my  house.  She  wished 
me,  if  I  had  sufficient  courage,  to  go  with  her, 
that  she  might  meet  him  there  before  evidence. 
We  went  together,  and  gained  admittance.  The 
person  who  met  us  at  the  door,  on  inquiry,  gave 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


203 


her  name,  and  proved  to  be  the  individual  whom 
we  wished  to  see.  The  paper  and  tracts  were 
offered  and  received.  The  wife  then  remarked 
that  she  came  to  see  her  husband,  and  supposed 
he  was  within.  His  being  there  was  denied,  but 
we  followed  to  her  room.  Here  we  found  every- 
thing in  proper  order,  and  the  woman  put  on  the 
appearance  of  so  much  innocence,  that,  to  a  per- 
son not  versed  in  the  knowledge  of  corrupt  human 
nature,  she  would  have  seemed  above  suspicion. 
However  the  wife  was  not  easily  satisfied,  and 
frankly  alleged  her  charges.  Both  were  much 
agitated,  but  the  woman  maintained  the  stand  first 
taken,  viz.,  that  she  was  unjustly  accused.  Find- 
ing the  point  at  issue  not  likely  to  be  settled,  I 
proposed  prayer.  After  we  knelt,  it  was  ascer- 
tained by  the  wife  that  her  husband  was  concealed 
under  the  bed.  A  conversation  ensued  between 
them,  during  which  he  promised  reformation,  if 
his  name  might  not  be  exposed ;  but  refused  to 
leave  his  hiding-place,  till  "  that  moral  reform 
woman  had  left  the  room."  0  !  that  he  may  for- 
sake sin  and  repent,  "  lest  iniquity  prove  his  ruin." 

Nov.  4th.  In  a  disreputable  house,  where  I  had 
visited  before,  and  removed  some  of  the  inmates, 
I  found  a  child  thirteen  years  old,  so  ill  that  she 
could  not  walk ;  and  on  this  account  the  mistress 
had  beaten  her,  to  induce  her  to  leave  the  place, 
but  she  knew  not  where  to  go.  I  found,  by  inqui- 


204 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


ry,  that  there  were  six  miserable  children  of  want 
in  this  den  of  vice,  between  the  ages  of  twelve 
and  sixteen.  The  woman  who  kept  them,  said 
she  had  so  little  patronage  of  late,  that  she  could 
scarce  give  them  their  food ;  and  as  for  the  sick 
one,  she  was  only  a  bill  of  expense,  and  she  cared 
not  where  she  went.  I  asked  if  she  would  go  to 
the  Refuge.  The  child  wept,  and  replied,  she 
"  had  a  mother  in  New  Jersey,  and  perhaps  she 
would  forgive  and  receive  her."  I  took  her  in  the 
stage  to  the  ferry,  and  thence  obtained  a  con- 
veyance to  take  her  to  her  home.  The  mother 
had  not  known  where  she  was  for  the  last  six 
months.  Her  excuse  was,  thai  she  considered 
her  old  enough  to  take  care  of  herself;  and  she 
had  put  her  out  to  a  family  in  the  neighborhood, 
who  afterward  moved  to  the  city ;  and  though  she 
knew  that  she  had  gone  from  them,  she  could  not 
learn  her  place  of  abode.  The  account  given  by 
the  child  is  this  :  She  was  allowed  to  go  out 
alone  evenings,  and  one  night  was  met  by  a  mil- 
liner's girl,  who  had  been  led  astray,  and  persuad- 
ed to  go  with  her  to  the  place  where  I  found  her. 
The  mother  seemed  almost  destitute  of  maternal 
feelings,  and  was  unwilling  to  receive  her,  lest 
her  stepfather  should  be  displeased.  Through 
much  entreaty,  she  was  permitted  to  remain  until 
he  should  come  home,  and  decide  what  must  be 
done. 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


205 


Qth.  Went  over  a  large  district,  and  obtained 
a  list  of  signatures  to  the  petition  for  the  suppres- 
sion of  vice.  Distributed  a  new  tract,  entitled 
"  The  Priceless  Jewel,"  to  many  young  women, 
who  received  it  with  avidity.  In  one  family  where 
I  called,  a  child  of  five  years  old  had  been  burned 
to  death  the  day  previous.  The  mother,  who  is 
unconverted,  seemed  weighed  down  with  anguish 
of  heart,  and  desired  prayer.  Oh,  that  she  may 
find  peace  to  her  troubled  soul,  by  casting  her 
sins  and  sorrows  at  the  feet  of  Jesus. 

Prayer-meeting  for  77}others. — Nov.  I9th.  Visited 

yesterday  an  interesting  district  in  O  street. 

Found  an  aged  sister  in  Christ,  who  had  occupied 
her  present  residence  for  five  years.  She  had 
become  acquainted  with  many  of  her  poor  neigh- 
bors, and  seemed  willing  to  comply  with  ray  re- 
quest to  invite  them  to  her  room,  for  the  purpose 
of  holding  a  prayer-meeting  on  the  following  after- 
noon, provided  she  could  aflbrd  the  time.  As  she 
was  very  poor,  by  paying  her  in  advance  what 
she  could  have  earned,  the  matter  was  settled, 
and  the  meeting  notified.  I  was  gratified  at  the 
hour  appointed  to  find  a  room-full  collected,  most 
of  whom  were  mothers.  After  reading  the  Scrip- 
lures  and  prayer,  much  freedom  of  utterance  was 
given  me,  in  stating  to  these  poor  parents  their 
solemn  obligations.  They  were  ready  to  admit, 
that  a!S  they  were  situated,  their  daughters  must 
18 


206 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


either  go  out  to  service,  learn  a  trade,  or  become 
ruined ;  and  that  there  was  Httle  safety  for  them 
unless  they  were  converted  in  early  life.  Many 
wept,  and  four  mothers,  who  had  large  families, 
said  they  had  never  given  them  one  word  of 
warning.  One  mother  remarked  that  her  own 
soul  must  be  converted  first,  or  she  could  not  lead 
her  children  in  the  right  way.  She  had  an  infidel 
husband, — never  went  to  a  place  of  worship,  and 
no  bible  was  allowed  in  the  family.  She  entreat- 
ed prayer,  and  fell  upon  her  knees,  apparently  in 
deep  distress.  Others  seemed  moved  by  seeing 
her  so  much  affected,  and  on  the  whole  it  was  a 
season  long  to  be  remembered. 

Visited  a  sick  woman  in  the  last  stages, 
of  consumption.  She  had  sent  for  me  to  make 
the  request  that  I  would  see  to  her  three  orphan 
children,  and  find  good  places  for  them  when  she 
was  removed.  The  fear  of  death  was  taken  away, 
and  her  last  wish  was  gratified  by  my  consenting 
to  take  this  charge. 

Entered  this  afternoon  forty-four  dwellings,  and 
left  tracts  and  papers.  This  district  has  been  con- 
sidered so  degraded,  that  the  tract  agent  could  find 
no  visiter  willing  to  take  it.  Have  had  the  privilege 
of  praying  with  several,  of  giving  bibles  to  some, 
and  securing  three  young  girls  from  a  course  of 
sin  and  shame. 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


207 


A  ruined  daughter. — 

"  Him  who  lured  thee  and  forsook, 
Oft  I  watched  with  angry  gaze, 
Fearful  saw  his  pleading  look, 
Anxious  heard  his  fervid  phrase. 
"  Soft  the  glances  of  the  youth, 

Soft  his  speech,  and  soft  his  sigh  ; 
But  no  sound  like  simple  truth, 
But  no  true  love  in  his  eye."— Coleridge. 

26th.  Went  by  request  to  see  an  unfortunate 
young  woman,  from  a  country  village  not  far  dis- 
tant. But  a  few  months  since,  she  left  clandes- 
tinely the  paternal  roof,  and  came  to  this  city  with 
a  man  who  had  gained  her  affections,  and  promised 
marriage.  Instead  of  fulfilling  his  engagements, 
after  her  ruin  was  effected,  he  provided  her  a 
home  among  the  fallen,  and  here  I  found  her.  I 
was  made  the  bearer  of  a  letter  to  her  from  a  near 
relative.  She  was  too  much  affected  to  read  it, 
and  while  it  was  read  to  her,  wept  excessively. 
She  acknowledged  the  extent  of  her  sin  and  shame, 
the  kindness  of  her  injured  friends,  her  ingratitude 
in  leaving  them — and  gave,  as  her  only  apology, 
the  regard  she  felt  for  her  destroyer.  She  was 
young,  and  previous  to  her  fall,  had  been  consid- 
ered beautiful.  At  this  house  and  the  one  adjoin- 
ing, I  conversed  with  ten  young  creatures  who 
had  been  recently  induced  to  come  from  the  coun- 
try and  enter  these  chambers  of  death.  It  was 
painful  and  heart-sickening  to  behold  the  wreck 
of  so  much  youth  and  loveliness. 


208 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


I  thought,  if  those  who  Uve  so  remote  from  this 
modern  Sodom,  that  they  often  think  and  say, 
"  Moral  reform  may  do  for  the  city,  but  here  in 
the  country  we  don't  need  it,"  could  have  beheld 
this  sacrifice  of  victims  furnished  from  the  coun- 
try, they  would  never  again  repeat  the  assertion. 

Second  interview  with  the  family  of  an  infidel. — 
26//i.  This  morning  had  a  second  interview  with 
the  wife  of  the  infidel  alluded  to  above,  and  gave 
her  a  bible  which  she  received  with  gratitude,  but 
said  she  nmst  hide  it  from  her  husband,  or  she 
would  not  be  able  to  keep  it.  She  appeared  to 
be  deeply  sensible  of  her  condition  as  a  sinner, 
and  promised  to  seek  salvation.  In  one  house 
visited,  found  in  an  upper  room  a  sick  mother  ap- 
parently near  her  last  change.  Iler  poverty  was 
distressing,  and  her  children  had  suflered  for  food. 
From  the  woman  I  learned  that  she  was  famish- 
ing for  the  bread  of  life.  She  said  that  her  mind 
had  been  much  exercised  for  a  long  time  and  she 
earnestly  desired  to  know  "  what  she  must  do  to 
be  saved,"  Prayer  was  offered  and  she  was  di- 
rected to  believe  in  Christ.  She  wept,  and  receiv- 
ed all  that  was  said  with  great  eagerness.  I  have 
visited  more  or  less  for  fifteen  years,  and  never 
before  have  seen  so  much  suflering  for  want  of 
employment.  Many  worthy  families  are  left  des- 
titute on  this  account — also  many  young  women 
who  have  hitherto  maintained  themselves  by  trades 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


209 


Numbers  of  these  are  now  peculiarly  exposed  to 
ruin.  They  are  only  acquainted  with  one  kind  of 
work,  have  not  friends  to  teach  or  assist  them,  and 
know  not  what  to  do.  If  they  had  the  good  sense 
to  leave  the  city,  or  be  willing  to  attempt  to  do 
anything  and  everything  that  would  insure  them 
an  honest  living,  rather  than  listen  to  the  syren 
song  of  those  who  lie  in  wait  to  destroy,  there 
would  be  less  cause  to  tremMe  for  the  fate  of  many. 
I  have  heard  during  this  week  of  the  fall  of  six, 
who  had  sustained  a  good  character  until  the  pres- 
ent state  of  the  times.  Three  of  these  were  or- 
phan sisters. 

Sanclijied  affiiction. — 

"A  shepherd  long  had  sought  in  vain, 

To  call  a  wandering  sheep  ; 
He  strove  to  make  her  pathway  plain, 

Through  dangers  thick  and  deep. 
But  still  the  wanderer  stood  aloof, 

And  still  refused  to  come  ; 
Nor  would  she  ever  hear  reproof, 

Or  turn  to  seek  her  home. 
At  last  the  gentle  shepherd  took 

Her  little  lamb  from  view  ; 
The  moiher  turned  with  anguished  look, 

She  turned  and  followed  too." 

Called  a  third  time  this  afternoon,  at  the  house 
of  the  afflicted  woman  whose  child  was  scalded  (al- 
luded to  under  date  of  Nov.  6).  When  I  first  saw 
her,  the  attendants  were  placing  the  shroud  upon 
the  lifeless  body  of  her  little  one,  and  she  was 
grieving  immoderately,  and  refused  to  be  comforted. 
18* 

• 


210 


WALKS  OF  USKFL'LNESS. 


Taking  her  hand  and  inquiring  tenderly  if  she  was 
as  well  prepared  to  die  as  her  beloved  child,  she 
said,  "  Ng."  She  was  living  without  hope  and 
without  God,  and  it  was  easy  to  show  her  the 
wisdom  and  goodness  of  her  heavenly  Father  in 
sparing  her  while  unprepared,  and  taking  the  litile 
one  to  himself.  She  desired  me  to  pray  for  her. 
and  that  I  would  come  again.  To-day  she  pro- 
fesses a  hope  in  CliriH,  and  a  desire  to  know  and 
to  do  the  will  of  the  Lord.  Says  she  feels  en- 
tirely resigned  to  the  dispensations  of  his  Provi- 
dence, and  is  full  of  gratitude  that  her  affliction 
has  been  made  a  means  of  bringing  her  to  re- 
pentance. 

Entreaties  of  a  child — pleasing  result. — D<c. 
f)th.  Called  again  on  the  woman  to  whom  the 
bible  was  given,  Nov.  26th.  She  related  Vvhat 
had  occurred  respecting  it  with  deep  feeling.  On 
the  evening  of  the  26th,  as  her  infidel  husband 
returned  from  his  work,  his  little  son,  a  child  of 
three  years  old,  ran  to  him,  saying  with  eager- 
ness, "  Pa  !  pa !  ma  has  got  a  bible  .'"  "  Ah !  how 
did  she  get  it  ?"  "  A  good  lady  brought  it,  pa." 
"  'Tis  well  for  the  '  good  lady'  and  her  bible  too. 
that  I  was  not  at  home,"  said  he,  in  an  angry  tone. 
He  then  commanded  the  trembling  wife  to  bring  the 
book  ;  and  on  receiving  it,  commenced  tearing  its 
sacred  pages  and  committing  them  to  the  flames. 
His  little  son  kept  pleading  Avith  tears,  "  Don't, 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


211 


pa  1  'tis  the  Bible,  God's  book !"  but  to  no  pur- 
pose. He  went  on  with  his  work  till  it  was 
wholly  consumed.  The  wife  had  said  nothing, 
although  she  felt  intensely ;  but  the  artless  en- 
treaties of  his  darling  child,  though  apparently  dis- 
regarded, were  not  to  be  forgotten. 

"  Last  evening,"  said  the  grateful  wife,  "  my 
husband  came  home  with  a  large  family  bible,  and 
placed  it  upon  the  table,  giving  us  permission  to 
read  it  when  we  pleased."  She  observed  that 
this  unexpected  favor  so  overcame  her,  that  she 
fell  upon  her  knees  before  him,  and  with  uplifted 
hands  and  .streaming  eyes,  ejaculated  her  thanks- 
giving to  God.  She  seemed  to  feel  that  this  bles- 
sed book  had  pointed  her  darkened  mind  to  the 
way  of  life  ;  and  to  rejoice  in  the  hope  that  mercy 
may  be  in  store  both  for  herself  and  her  household. 

Ckrustian  forlituJe. — IQth.  On  arriving  at  my 
house  last  evening,  I  learned  that  several  notes 
had  been  left,  desiring  calls  on  the  morrow.  In 
compliance  with  one  of  these  requests,  an  early 
hour  this  morning  found  me  in  a  cold  damp  base- 
ment by  the  sick  bed  of  a  sufferer.  She  was  a 
member  of  the  church,  but  had  not  made  known 
her  destitute  condition,  and  was  led  to  do  so  now 
only  from  extreme  necessity.  Her  sister,  who 
was  also  dependant  on  her  own  efforts,  had  left  a 
good  home  to  take  care  of  her  in  her  sickness.  Two 
helpiess  children,  with  none  to  supply  their  wants, 


212 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


added  to  this  cup  of  affliction.  And  yet  the  lan- 
guage of  the  mother  seemed  to  be,  "  Though  He 
slay  me,  yet  will  I  trust  in  him."  Faith  in  the 
promises  afforded  her  unspeakable  consolation. 
Those  who  possess  a  competence,  and  yet  mur- 
mur, might  learn  a  salutary  lesson  from  the  inmates 
of  this  miserable  cellar. 

I3th.  Visiting  in  street  this  afternoon  with 

petitions ;  while  a  lady  was  enrolling  her  name 
upon  the  list,  an  individual,  whose  interesting 
countenance  was  greatly  marred  with  sorrow,  fixed 
an  earnest  gaze  upon  me,  and  though  she  could 
not  speak  a  word  of  English,  evidently  wished. to 
implore  sympathy  and  aid.  I  inquired  her  history, 
and  learned,  through  an  interpreter,  that  by 
consenting  to  an  elopement  and  a  clandestine 
marriage  with  the  object  of  her  choice,  she  had 
been  induced  to  forsake  her  parents  and  native 
country,  not  knowing  the  things  that  would  befall 
her.  Her  husband  assured  her  that  he  had  prop- 
erty in  this  city ;  and  led  her  to  suppose,  that 
after  her  arrival  here,  every  wish  and  want  would 
be  fully  met.  They  had  been  here  but  a  short 
period  when  she  found  that  her  "  air  castles"  had 
vanished.  He  had  not  even  sufficient  to  pay  their 
board,  and  they  were  shifted  from  place  to  place, 
till  he  had  pawned  most  of  her  wardrobe,  and 
then  he  was  suddenly  missing.  She  learned  that 
he  had  embarked  for  New  Orleans,  and  in  all 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


213 


probability  had  left  her  for  ever.  She  regarded 
him  with  all  the  ardor  of  a  "  woman's  love,"  and 
this  miexpected  shock  was  almost  overwhelming. 
Her  landlady,  finding  that  she  was  pennyless, 
turned  her  from  her  door ;  and  here  she  had  come 
as  a  friendless,  homeless,  stranger,  to  entreat  coun- 
sel from  a  fellow  countrywoman  who  could  un- 
derstand her  language.  Learning  from  this  woman 
that  her  story  was  corroborated  by  other  circum- 
stances, and  fearing  derangement  would  ensue  un- 
less immediate  aid  was  extended,  I  concluded  to 
return  to  a  sister  in  the  church,  in  easy  circumstan- 
ces, on  whom  I  had  called  this  morning,  and  who 
assured  me  that  she  desired  to  know  in  what  way 
to  do  good,  and  was  ready  to  do  it.  Finding  her 
m,  I  informed  her  of  the  situation  of  this  young 
woman,  telling  her  that  I  came  to  offer  her  the 
privilege  of  "  doing  good"  immediately,  by  giving 
this  erring  and  afflicted  child  a  home,  and  suitable 
employment  to  div.ert  her  mind  till  her  present  an- 
guish of  heart  was  soothed.  She  consented  at 
once  to  comply  with  my  request,  and  desired  me 
to  bring  her  without  delay.  I  thought,  surely  this 
was  of  the  Lord,  as  Christian  kindness,  in  her 
present  state  of  mind,  seemed  to  be  the  only  thing 
that  could  probably  save  her  from  self-destruction. 
After  retracing  my  steps,  I  found  her  in  waiting, 
and  more  than  grateful  that  a  place  was  provided 
hei.  She  said  to  her  interpreter,  as  she  was  leav- 


214 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


ing  to  go  with  me,  "  My  heart  is  very  big  toward 
this  lady,"  and  her  actions  spoke  louder  than 
words.  That  her  soul  may  be  enlightened  and 
saved,  should  now  be  our  ardent  prayer.  To  give 
temporal  relief  to  the  needy  is  a  blessed  privilege  ; 
but  0  !  to  be  instrumental  in  saving  a  single  soul ! 
compared  with  this,  the  wealth  of  kingdoms  is  less 
than  "  the  dust  of  the  balance." 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


215 


CHAPTER  XI. 

Consequences  of  backsliding, — Child  saved. — Prison  scenes. — 
Intemperate  families  visited. — Beggar  children  getting  Avarm 
in  the  sun. — Case  of  suicide. — Instances  of  hopeful  conver- 
sion.— Influence  of  novel  reading. — Wayward  child. — Affect 
ing  case. — Sick  youth. 

Consequences  of  backsliding. — Dec.  26f.h.  I  at- 
tended the  stated  prayer-meeting  held  in  my  dis- 
trict this  afternoon.  A  poor  woman  invited  me 
home  with  her  to  see  a  suffering  family,  living  in 
the  basement  of  the  house  where  she  resided. 
The  steps  were  so  broken  that  I  found  it  impossi- 
ble to  descend  without  assistance.  On  entering 
the  apartment,  and  beholding  its  emaciated  and 
sorrowing  inmates,  my  heart  grew  sick.  In  one 
comer  sat  a  feeble  mother,  with  tattered  garments, 
bending  over  her  sick  infant,  who  was  apparently 
near  its  happy  release  from  want  and  wo.  On 
the  other  hand  was  another  little  one,  nearly  blind. 
Three  other  half-clad  and  half-starved  children 
made  up  the  group.  And  here  was  the  helpless 
and  hapless  household  of  the  drunkard.  The  fa- 
ther of  this  deserted  family  was  in  Bridewell,  pay- 
ing the  penalty  of  his  brutal  violence  and  baccha- 
nalian revels.  The  appearance  of  the  mother 
indicated  the  anguish  of  her  heart.  She  had  seen 


216 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


better  days,  had  tasted  the  refinements  of  educated 
and  Christian  society,  and  the  sad  remembrance 
of  her  vanished  blessings,  rendereS  her  situation 
almost  intolerable.  Before  leaving  England,  her 
husband  was  a  licensed  preacher,  and  received 
from  all  classes  the  respect  he  merited.  Beer- 
drinking  was  one  of  the  established  customs  of 
those  around  him,  and  he,  notwithstanding  his 
high  profession,  followed  the  multitude  to  do  evil. 
About  five  years  since  they  removed  to  this  coun- 
try, and  here  he  could  not  dispense  with  fermented 
and  stimulating  drinks  ;  and  thus,  step  by  step,  he 
has  descended  from  the  pulpit  to  the  prison.  See- 
ing no  appearance  of  a  bed  about  the  room,  I  in- 
quired where  they  lodged.  The  mother  answered, 
"  Upon  the  floor^ — and  these  cold  nights  I  have 
feared  my  children  would  freeze."  They  were 
now  shivering  with  the  cold,  and  their  womout 
garments  afforded  but  a  miserable  protection  from 
the  inclemency  of  the  season.  The  neighbors,  of 
whom  I  inquired,  spoke  in  the  highest  terms  of  this 
afflicted,  uncomplaining  woman,  and  all  agreed  that 
her  case  demanded  immediate  aid.  My  first  business 
was  to  provide  fuel,  and  then  attempt,  by  application 
to  the  wealthy,  to  meet  other  pressing  wants.  Be- 
fore night  this  object  was  accomplished.  Through 
the  mercy  of  God,  the  hearts  of  some  to  whom  he 
has  given  more  than  a  competence,  were  opened, 
80  that  present  suffering  is  now  relieved. 


WALKS  OF   USEFULNESS.  217 

27th.  My  work  to-day  has  been  directed  solely 
to  the  great  object  for  which  we  labor,  viz.,  the 
prevention  of  trime.  My  first  visit  was  made 
in  compliance  with  the  request  of  a  Christian 
brother,  at  the  house  of  a  friend,  who  has  painful 
reason  to  suppose  that  her  daughter,  a  youth  of 
seventeen,  is  on  the  verge  of  ruin.  I  conversed 
with  this  daughter  kindly,  but  with  much  plainness 
of  speech.  The  results  of  disobedience,  idleness, 
love  of  dress,  and  vain  company,  were  clearly 
pointed  out,  and  cases  of  recent  occurrence  were 
cited,  as  a  warning  to  this  reckless  girl.  The 
visit  seemed  to  be  well  received,  and  if  followed 
with  the  divine  blessing,  will  not  have  been  in 
vain. 

Child  saved. — Dec.  'SOth.  In  passing  from  Tenth 
street  to  Waverley  place,  I  observed  a  child  some 
eight  or  nine  years  old  with  a  bundle  of  shavings. 
Her  cries  of  distress  attracted  my  attention,  and 
on  inquiry,  I  learned  that  she  was  so  chilled  with 
cold  that  she  could  scarcely  walk  or  stand.  Her 
clothing  was  in  tatters,  and  quite  insufficient  for 
ordinary  weather.  Taking  her  under  my  cloak,  I 
proceeded  to  a  hospitable  dwelling  near  by,  where 
she  was  warmed,  fed,  and  clothed.  It  was  evi- 
dent from  her  whole  appearance,  that  the  chill  of 
death  would  soon  have  come  over  her,  if  timely 
assistance  had  not  been  rendered.  After  she  was 
sufficiently  recovered,  we  proceeded  to  her  home. 
19 


218 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


where  we  found  a  drunken  mother  and  two  other 
suffering  children.  They  had  no  fuel  except  the 
shavings  gathered  hv  the  oldest  child,  and  were 
literally  in  want  of  all  things.  Were  the  weeping 
prophet  to  revisit  the  earth,  might  he  not  again 
exclaim  "  O  that  my  head  were  waters,  and  mine 
eyes  a  fountain  of  tears,  that  I  might  weep  day 
and  night  for  the  slain  of  the  daughter  of  my  peo- 
ple." 

Prison  scenes. — A  portion  of  this  day  had  been 
■Bet  apart  to  visit  the  unhappy  convicts  at  the  city 
•prison,  whose  life  must  soon  be  ended  upon  the 
gallows.  The  interview  was  extremely  painful. 
A  lady  who  accompanied  us  had  been  acquainted 
with  John  Smock  in  his  early  days.  He  recog- 
nised her,  and  seemed  affected  when  reminded  of 
the  commencement  of  his  downward  course,  of 
what  he  was,  and  might  have  been,  but  for  dissi- 
pation and  crime.  Some  of  the  keepers  had  told 
us  that  he  was  so  hardened  and  reckless  it  was 
scarcely  safe  to  enter  his  cell ;  but  during  the 
conversation  his  eyes  were  filled  with  tears,  his 
lips  quivered,  and  it  was  evident  that  death  ap- 
peared to  him  as  the  king  of  terrors.  On  the  25th 
day  of  the  present  month  he  goes  from  before  a 
human  tribunal  to  the  judgment  bar  of  God. 

In  another  cell,  a  short  distance  from  him,  we 
«aw  the  inhuman  husband  who,  in  taking  the  life 
of  his  wife,  inflicted  eleven  deadly  wounds.  He 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


219 


received  a  tract,  and  was  ready  to  converse  or  lis- 
ten to  a  word  of  exhortation ;  but  his  heart  was 
like  the  nether  millstone,  and  his  countenance  and 
manner  gave  fearful  indications  that  he  must  soon 
hold  fellowship  with  the  fiends  of  darkness. 

Of  the  three  others  imprisoned  for  murder,  the 
case  of  the  young  female  from  Bergen  was  most 
deeply  affecting.  In  the  opinion  of  all  who  have 
had  intercourse  with  her,  she  is  truly  penitent. 
We  found  her  with  her  bible,  which  is  said  to  be 
her  constant  companion  ;  and  her  anguish  of  heart 
seemed  almost  insupportable.  The  following  are 
some  details  of  her  history,  as  given  by  herself. 
Her  parents  were  in  respectable  circumstances, 
and  she  received  early  religious  instruction,  and 
attended  the  sabbath-school  until  she  was  about 
fifteen  years  old.  Her  father  becoming  dissolute, 
his  farm  was  sacriiiced,  and  she  was  sent  to  the 
city  to  maintain  herself.  After  some  time  she 
became  acquainted  with  young  Floor,  and  two 
years  since  was  married  to  him  without  the  con- 
sent or  knowledge  of  his  parents.  To  comply 
with  his  wishes  and  deceive  his  friends,  she  con- 
tinued to  be  known  as  "  Phebe  Simonson  ;"  and 
had  boarded  or  kept  house,  as  he  directed,  from 
that  time  till  his  death.  For  some  weeks  previous 
to  the  poisoning,  he  had  entirely  neglected  her. 
The  delicacy  of  her  situation  demanded  his  atten- 
kon  and  care,  but  she  was  left  without  means  to 


220 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


pay  her  rent  or  procure  food  ;  and  more  than  this, 
he  had  taken  her  best  articles  of  apparel,  and  giv- 
en them  to  one  and  another  of  vile  character.  In 
view  of  these  and  similar  provocations,  a  rich 
cake  was  prepared,  with  a  quantity  of  arsenic  in- 
fused, and  presented  to  him  with  seeming  kind- 
ness. He  received  and  ate,  and  in  so  doing  met 
his  death.  She  was  suspected  and  arrested,  and 
on  her  examination,  with  a  full  sense  of  the  awful 
nature  of  her  crime,  confessed  as  above.  During 
the  examination  of  witnesses,  tliree  abandoned 
women  appeared  in  court,  tach  claiming  Flour  as 
her  husband. 

From  these  and  similar  statements  the  evidence 
is  conclusive,  that  the  crime  and  wo  here  depicted 
may  be  traced  to  licentiousness.  The  young  man 
who  has  thus  found  an  early  and  dishonored  grave, 
was  connected  with  a  respectable  circle  of  rela- 
tives, who  are  obliged  to  "  mourn  as  those  without 
hope:"  and  no  considerations  can  be  gathered, 
calculated  to  sooth  or  heal  the  deep  wounds  that 
have  been  inflicted  by  this  unexpected  stroke. 
The  mothers  of  both  these  victims  of  crime  are 
members  of  the  church.  Had  they  labored  and 
prayed  for  the  preservation  and  salvation  of  these 
children,  as  is  the  duty  and  privilege  of  the  Chris- 
tian, would  they  have  so  far  departed  from  "  the 
way  they  should  go  ?"  O,  that  others  may  take 
warning  from  this  painful  example,  and  while  those 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


221 


under  their  care  may  be  restrained  and  taught, 
spare  no  pains  in  the  discharge  of  their  duty. 

Intemperate  families  visited. — Jan.  9th,  1840. 
During  the  past  two  weeks,  I  have  made  it  my 
business  to  follow  to  their  homes  numbers  of  poor, 
ragged  children,  found  begging  in  the  streets,  and 
the  scenes  that  have  been  witnessed  in  the  dwel- 
lings thus  visited  surpass  description.  Every 
house,  with  few  exceptions,  was  filled  from  garret 
to  cellar,  with  the  victims  of  drunkenness  and  its 
attendants,  filth,  disease,  and  every  species  of  vice. 
Tn  one  hundred  families  visited,  there  were  drunk- 
en parents,  surrounded  by  numerous  children,  all 
of  whom,  who  had  attained  suiRcient  age,  were 
employed  in  begging  for  the  support  of  themselves 
and  their  miserable  parents. 

In  my  walks  I  have  found  many  families  of  the 
virtuous  poor  suffering  from  cold  and  hunger,  and 
in  most  instances  have  been  able,  through  the  as- 
sistance of  neighbors  on  whom  I  called,  to  render 
them  comparatively  comfortable.  In  one  instance, 
a  tract  distributor  directed  me  to  a  dwelling  in 

B  street,  where  she  told  me  I  would  find  an 

object  for  benevolent  effort.  I  went,  and  found  a 
young  woman,  who,  though  she  said  little  of  her 
sufferings,  was  evidently  the  companion  of  a  dis- 
solute husband,  and  the  victim  of  poverty  and  an 
aching  heart.  Her  circumstances  had  induced 
disease,  and  she  was  confined  to  her  bed  in  a 
19* 


222 


AVAdJCS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


large  empty  house,  with  no  one,  within  call,  to  ren- 
der her  any  assistance.  Her  limbs  were  cold, 
and  she  had  neither  fuel  nor  food  to  render  her 
comfortable.  Several  of  the  neighbors  were  in- 
duced, through  my  representation,  to  contrihule  to 
her  wants.  While  recommending  to  her  the  way 
of  salvation,  and  engaging  in  prayer,  she  seemed 
deeply  affected,  and,  from  subsequent  visits,  I  have 
reason  to  hope  she  may  yet  prove  a  brand  plucked 
from  the  burning. 

Beggar  children  getting  warm  in  the  sun. — Being 
in  the  suburbs  of  the  city,  as  I  was  passing  on, 
my  attention  was  arrested  by  a  chime  of  infant 
voices.  I  turned  to  see  whence  the  sound  pro- 
ceeded, and  observed  three  little  beggar  girls  sit- 
ting near  a  fence,  with  the  sun  shining  directly  on 
them,  singing  a  sabbath-school  hymn.  I  accosted 
them  kindly,  and  inquired  what  they  were  doing 
here.  "  We  were  cold,  ma'am,  and  are  getting 
warm  in  the  sun."  "  Where  do  you  live  ?"  "  In 
Twentieth  street,  ma'am."  "  Wliy  have  you  come 
away  so  far  from  your  homes  ?"  "  To  get  some 
food,  and  something  to  make  a  fire."  "  Why  were 
you  singing  ?"  "  To  praise  God :  we  go  to  Sun- 
day-school, and  our  teacher  says,  if  we  are  good 
children,  God  will  never  let  us  want."  These 
and  similar  questions  were  answered  with  so 
much  artlessness  and  modesty,  that  I  was  induced 
to  take  them  across  the  street  and  furnish  each 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


223 


»v'ith  a  loaf,  which  was  received  with  expressions 
of  gratitude. 

Case  of  suicide. — Jan.  2Sth.  Mrs.  M  ,  sent 

for  me,  desiring  that  I  would  assist  her  in  the  at- 
tempt to  call  back  a  poor  wanderer  from  virtue, 
who  had  for  some  time  served  her  in  her  family. 
She  spoke  of  the  young  woman  as  one  possessing 
uncommon  intelligence  and  extremely  pretty.  She 
had  m^ade  a  profession  of  religion,  and  for  a  time 
her  conduct  was  consistent.  But  in  an  unguarded 
hour,  she  was  led  into  temptation.  By  a  sinful 
companion  she  was  unsuspectingly  introduced  into 
a  house  of  ill-fame  in  Mercer  street,  where  her 
ruin  was  completed. 

Mrs.  M.  had  learned  from  some  person  who 
had  seen  her  pass  to  and  from  the  house  that  this 
was  probably  her  chosen  home.  She'  went,  with 
great  timidity,  to  the  house  and  made  inquiries, 
but  was  not  allowed  to  see  her.  She  now  de- 
sired me  to  go,  and,  if  I  could  gain  access  to  her, 
to  tell  her  that  if  she  would  reform,  she  would 
again  receive  her  into  her  family,  and  remember 
the  past  no  more  against  her.  I  accordingly  went, 
and  finding  its  inmates  in  a  state  of  extreme  con- 
sternation was  readily  admitted.  Inquiring  the 
cause  of  the  terror  which  marked  every  counte- 
nance, I  was  told  that  one  of  the  girls  of  the 
house  had  that  morning  taken  laudanum  for  the 
purpose  of  destroying  herself.  I  asked  permission 


224 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


to  see  her,  which  was  granted ;  and  there,  in  an 
upper  room,  stretched  upon  the  h'ed  of  death,  lay 
the  poor  unconscious  girl  for  whom  I  was  search- 
ing. I  made  some  inquiries  of  the  woman  of  the 
house,  who  told  me  that  the  cause  of  this  conduct 
in  the  girl,  was  a  troubled  conscience.  She  said 
she  had  frequently  spoken  of  respectable  connex- 
ions, who,  did  they  know  her  circumstances,  would 
be  distressed  beyond  measure,  and  of  a  mother 
whose  heart  would  break.  I  left  the  poor  wretch- 
es, who,  thoughtless  and  reckless  as  they  may  be 
when  they  apprehend  not  the  evil  day  is  near, 
were  now  trembling  and  agitated  exceedingly,  as 
tlie  thought  of  death  was  forced  upon  them. 

Instances  of  hopeful  conversion. — Another  pr^ 
cious  instance  of  encouragement,  has  lately  come 
to  my  knowledge.  Some  months  since,  a  young 
woman  called  on  me,  early  in  the  morning,  desir- 
ing me  to  procure  her  a  situation.  She  had  learn- 
ed that  I  was  connected  with  the  Moral  Reform 
Society,  and  that  I  would  probably  direct  her  to  a 
virtuous  family  for  employment.  She  remarked 
that  her  character  was  her  only  dependance,  and 
to  preserve  this,  she  had  refused  to  go  to  an  intel- 
ligence office,  lest  she  should  be  misdirected.  1 
was  interested,  and  invited  her  to  come  in  and 
wait  until  my  season  of  family  worship  was  over, 
as  my  little  adopted  daughter  and  myself  were 
just  preparing  for  it.    She  did  so,  and  I  took  the 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


225 


opportunity  of  recommending  the  precious  Savior 
to  her  for  a  friend  and  protector.  She  said  she 
felt  that  she  needed  a  friend,  and  seemed  much 
affected  during  the  interview.  She  recently  called 
on  me,  and  with  a  full  heart  pressed  my  hand  in 
hers,  and  said  that  that  morning's  prayer  and  con- 
versation had  been  blessed  to  her  eternal  salvation. 
She  gave  delightful  evidence  of  a  saving  change. 

Feb.  I4th. — We  learned  to-day  that  the  afflicted 
mother,  alluded  to  in  a  former  report  (whose  hus- 
band was  in  prison,  and  herself  and  five  children 
left  in  a  state  of  destitution  and  suffering),  has 
been  led  to  cast  her  sins  and  sorrows  at  the  feet 
of  Jesus,  and  gives  good  evidence  of  a  saving 
change.  The  bible  is  now  "  the  man  of  her  coun- 
sel," and  she  feels  so  much  reverence  for  its  sa- 
cred truths,  that  she  reads  it  daily  in  a  kneeling 
posture  and  no  other,  both  in  the  closet  and  in  her 
family.  This  is  the  second  instance  of  conver- 
sion that,  in  the  providence  of  God  has  resulted 
from  the  "  prayer  meeting  for  poor  mothers."  It 
is  also  our  privilege  to  record  two  other  cases  of 
conversion  of  recent  occurrence,  resulting,  as  we 
have  reason  to  believe,  from  the  blessing  of  God 
on  our  feeble  efforts.    To  his  name  be  the  praise. 

Tnjluence  of  novel  reading. — 

"  A  novel  was  a  book, 
Three-volumed,  and  once  read ;  and  oft  crammed  full 
Of  poisonous  error,  blackening  every  page  ; 
And  oftener  still,  of  trifling,  second-hand 


226 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


Remark,  and  old,  diseased,  putrid  thought, 

And  miserable  incident,  at  war  . 

With  nature,  with  itself  and  truth  at  war  ; 

Yet  charming  still  the  greedy  reader  on, 

Till  done,  he  tried  to  recollect  his  thoughts. 

And  nothing  found  but  dreaming  emptiness." — Pollok. 

18th.  Several  instances  of  the  baleful  effects  of 
novel  reading  having  recently  come  under  my  ob- 
servation, I  feel  constrained  to  lift  a  note  of  warn- 
ing against  the  indulgence  of  this  pernicious 
habit.  I  have  seen  family  connexions  sundered, 
husbands  estranged,  children  scattered,  and  the 
wife  and  mother  as  much  a  victim  of  this  unnatu- 
ral mental  stimulant  as  the  most  confirmed  in- 
ebriate is  of  his  debasing  practices.  Its  tendency 
is  to  disqualify  entirely  for  all  the  ordinary  matter- 
of-fact  duties  of  life,  and  to  the  mothers  of  this, 
and  those  who  are  to  be  the  mothers  of  another 
generation,  I  would  solemnly  say,  avoid  this  per- 
nicious practice,  yield  not  to  its  excitements.  No- 
thing tends  more  to  destroy  virtuous  principles,  or 
promote  the  growth  of  unholy  appetites  and  pas- 
sions. It  is  a  real  barrier  to  all  useful  acquire- 
ments, and  if  persisted  in,  will  effectually  counter- 
act the  most  faithful  religious  instruction.  It  es- 
pecially unfits  the  wife  and  mother  for  the  duties 
of  her  station.  Nothing  can  be  more  uncongenial 
with  the  nature  and  character  of  domestic  duties 
and  relations  than  novel  reading. 

In  mentioning  the  object  of  our  petition  to  a 
gentleman  of  respectability  a  few  days  since,  he 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


227 


remarked,  "  I  approve  the  design,  but  I  wish, 
while  you  are  seeking  to  promote  this  laudable  ob- 
ject, you  would  not  fail  to  do  all  in  your  power  to 
prevent  the  equally  prevalent,  if  not  equally  de- 
structive evil  of  novel-reading."  This  gentleman's 
wife  had  indulged  in  the  practice  until  she  seemed 
entirely  unfitted  for  any  important  duty.  Her 
nervous  system  had  become  so  excitable,  and  con- 
sequently her  temper  so  irritable,  that  except 
while  drinking  in  her  favorite  stimulus,  as  she 
pored  over  fictitious  scenes,  or  perhaps,  under  the 
influence  of  morphine,  to  which  in  the  extremity 
of  excitement  she  found  it  necessary  to  resort,  she 
seemed  but  one  remove  from  insanity.  Other  cases 
might  be  cited  equally  painful. 

Wayward  child. — 23^?.  My  mind  has  been  led 
much  to  the  contemplation  of  parental  influence 
upon  the  characters  of  children,  from  being  called 
upon  to  assist,  in  getting  a  wayward  child  into  the 
house  of  refuge.  This  child's  father  had,  in  his 
day,  been  an  open  infidel,  and  though  he  had  now 
gone  to  his  own  place,  the  influences  of  his  prin- 
ciples seemed  operating  still  upon  the  life  and 
conduct  of  this  juvenile  sinner.  Already  had  she 
more  than  once  set  fire  to  the  house  of  a  friend 
and  benefactor,  who  had  taken  her  in  charge 
hoping  to  save  her  from  ruin. 

At  the  same  time,  at  the  desire  of  her  mother,  I 
placed  another  child  in  the  house  of  refuge,  who 


228 


WALKS   OF  USKFULNESS. 


had  been  convicted  of  stealing,  and  had  manifest- 
ed other  vicious  propensities 

Affecting  case. — 

"  Loathing  thy  polluted  let, 

Hie  thee,  maiden,  hie  thee  hence  \ 
Seek  thy  weeping  mnther's  cot, 
With  a  wiser  innocence. 

"  Thou  hast  i<nown  deceit  and  folly. 
Thou  hast  felt  that  vice  is  wo ; 
With  a  musing  melancholy— 
Duly  armed,  go,  maiden,  go  !"— Coleridge. 

March  2d.  How  many  and  various  are  the  temp- 
tations to  which  the  poor  of  this  city  are  exposed ! 
My  heart  sickens  as  new  cases  in  evidence  of  this, 
come  up  before  me. 

A  Christian  mother  called  on  me  a  few  days 
since,  desiring  advice  in  reference  to  a  daughter 
whom  she  mourned  as  lost.  She  seemed  borne 
down  with  grief,  and  emaciated  with  the  deep  sor- 
row and  solicitude  occasioned  by  the  mysterious 
absence  of  her  loved  one  for  the  last  three  months. 
She  knew  of  no  vicious  propensities  in  her  child, 
and  had  considered  her  the  pride  of  her  family. 
No  suspicions  of  her  ruin  had  crossed  her  mind, 
but  she  had  supposed  her  murdered,  or  that  some 
great  evil  had  befallen  her.  In  the  height  of  this 
suspense,  a  small,  neat-looking  boy  called  upon 
her  with  a  note  from  the  daughter,  desiring  her  to 
send  a  suit  of  clothes  which  the  mother  provided ; 
and  then,  as  she  could  learn  nothing  of  her  resi- 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


229 


dence  from  the  boy,  she  followed  him  at  a  dis- 
tance. This  the  hid  discovered,  and  succeeded  in 
avoiding  her,  so  that  she  lost  sight  of  him.  Days 
passed  on,  and  no  daughter  came,  and  the  mother's 
acxiety  was  increased  almost  to  phrensy.  She  neg- 
lected her  family,  and  traversed  the  streets  con- 
tinually, hoping  again  to  see  the  boy  M'ho  had 
brought  her  the  note.  In  this  she  succeeded, 
and  entreated  him  with  tears,  to  tell  her  where 
she  might  find  her  daughter.  He  said  they  had 
made  him  take  a  solemn  oath  that  he  would  not  ex- 
pose her,  and  they  paid  him  well  for  everything 
he  did  at  the  house  in  which  she  was,  that  he 
worked  there  every  day  and  received  better  wages 
than  anywhere  else.  The  mother's  eyes  now 
began  to  open  in  regard  to  her  daughter's  situation, 
and  by  tears  and  entreaties  she  obtained  from  the 
boy  a  knowledge  of  her  residence.  He  said  she 
was  at  a  boarding-house  where  there  were  a  great 
many  ladies — that  his  mother  washed  for  the 
ladies,  and  they  paid  him  very  liberally  for  doing 
errands.  He  said  his  mother's  family  were  not  so 
poor  as  they  used  to  be,  before  they  got  work  at 
this  place. 

She  learned  from  the  lad  that  he  Knew  it  to  be 
a  house  of  ill-fame.  Thus  this  child,  though  he 
was  a  sabbath-school  boy,  and  afraid  to  break  his 
oath,  was  familiar  with  vice  and  crime,  and  was 
actually  coming  in  contact  every  day  with  the  vil- 
20 


230 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


est  characters  ;  while  oa  the  other  hand  he  was 
mmgliiig  with  tlic  boys  of  our  sabbath-schools  ; 
and  his  mother,  because  better  paid  here  than 
elsewhere  for  her  labor,  was  exposing  her  child  to 
contamination  of  the  most  revolting  kind. 

Dangers  of  the  city. — In  my  walks  of  the  past 
week,  I  have  been  constrained  to  lift  a  warning 
voice  to  parents  with  regard  to  their  daughters. 
Why  will  parents  send  their  daughters  from  the 
country  to  the  city  to  learn  trades,  and  thus  re- 
move them  from  the  influences  of  home  and  pa- 
rental restraints,  and  expose  them  to  temptations 
which  they  could  never  know  in  the  country  ?  In 
visiting  a  number  of  degraded  families,  and  finding 
one  distressed  woman  in  a  garret,  I  remarked  that 
I  had  seldom  met  with  such  a  case  of  destitution. 
She  told  me  that  if  I  went  into  the  cellar  I  would 
find  a  case  of  equal,  if  not  greater  misery.  Here 
I  found  a  poor  miserable  young  woman,  the  victim 
of  loathsome  and  fatal  disease  ;  and  as  I  listened 
to  her  tale  of  wo,  my  feelings  were  not  a  little 
agitated.  She  spoke  of  the  time  when  she  came 
to  the  city,  unstained  with  vice,  to  get  a  trade  and 
high  wages,  as  she  had  been  promised ;  but  found 
instead,  temptations  to  dress,  allurements  to  asso- 
ciate with  vain  company,  and,  step  by  step,  she 
was  led  the  down-hill  of  folly,  until  pollution  and 
death  w^ere  implanted  in  her  system,  and  there 
seemed  nothing  before  her  but  a  fearful  looking  for 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


231 


of  judgment  and  fiery  indignation.  She  is  to-day 
to  be  taken  to  the  Bellevue  hospital.  Oh,  that 
parents  and  guardians  in  the  country  would  be 
wise,  that  they  would  understand,  and  be  warned 
by  these  things. 

bth.  My  heart  has  been  comforted  this  day  by 
the  blessed  experience  of  tlie  loving  kindness  of  a 
prayer-hearing  God.  The  afflicted  mother  alluded 
to  above  was  advised  to  state  her  case  to  her 
class-leader,  and  request  him  to  apply  to  a  police 
officer  with  whom  I  was  acquaijited,  to  go  with 
him  to  the  house  where  her  daughter  was  staying, 
and  demand  her  of  the  keepers,  and  if  refused,  see 
that  the  house  was  searched,  and  broken  up  if  possi- 
ble. She  followed  my  directions,  and  was  encour- 
aged by  her  class-leader  to  expect  he  would  at- 
tend to  it  immediately.  Three  weary  days  had 
passed,  and  the  officer  had  disappointed  her  hopes, 
when  she  came  to  me  again,  weighed  down  with 
her  load  of  grief,  and  entreated  my  aid.  We  tried 
to  ask  in  faith,  that  the  Lord  would  teach  us  what 
to  do  ;  and  with  the  conviction  that  he  would  go 
with  us,  resolved  to  fix  upon  a  suitable  hour  of 
the  day,  and  enter  and  search  the  house,  if  possi- 
ble. On  arriving  at  the  place,  we  separated  and 
knocked  for  admittance  at  different  doors.  The 
mother  gained  access  at  the  basement,  and  I  was 
admitted  at  the  door  above.  As  we  entered,  the 
young  women  were  leaving  their  rooms  to  dine, 


232 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


and  several  were  just  at  that  moment  passing 
through  the  hall.  By  requesting  them  kindly  to 
stop  a  moment,  and  saying  that  I  had  some  inter- 
esting tracts  for  them,  their  attention  was  arrested. 
They  with  one  accord  came  forward  to  take  them  ; 
and  while  handing  one  to  each,  I  addressed  them 
in  words  to  this  effect :  "  This  tract  is  the  Price- 
less Jewel  ;  it  contains  just  such  counsel  as  you 
need.  O,  if  you  had  read  it,  and  obeyed  it  long 
since,  you  would  not  now  be  here  in  this  place 
of  sin  and  sorrow — and  there  is  one  of  you,  who 
came  here  about  three  months  since,  who  has  al- 
most broken  a  mother's  heart."  After  stating  some 
of  the  circumstances,  observing  the  face  of  a  young 
girl  suffused  with  crimson,  I  took  her  hand  and 
said,  "  How  could  you,  child,  thus  treat  your  kind 
mother  ?  How  could  you  occasion  her  such  dis- 
tress and  anguish  ?  Week  after  week  she  has 
sought  you,  till  her  flesh  is  nearly  wasted  ;  and 
she  has  felt  that  she  must  soon  sink  into  the  grave, 
if  she  did  not  obtain  relief.  She  has  been  here 
again  and  again,  and  has  been  told  you  were  not 
here  ;  and  to-day  she  has  come  once  more,  and 
now  you  must  leave  this  place  and  go  with  her, 
or  I  have  an  officer  at  command,  who  will  take 
you  at  once  to  the  Refuge."  By  this  time  she 
was  weeping  immoderately,  and  begged  to  see 
her  mother.  She  was  then  called  from  below, 
and  the  interview  between  them  was  most  mov- 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


233 


ing.  The  child  entreated  the  forgiveness  of  her 
injured  parent,  and  readily  consented  to  leave  im- 
mediately. We  proceeded  with  her  to  her  home, 
a  distance  of  two  miles,  and  had  but  just  arrived, 
when  the  mistress  of  the  place  we  had  left  enter- 
ed the  room,  filled  with  indignation.  Our  move- 
ments were  such  that  we  had  escaped  the  house 
without  her  knowledge  ;  but  she  had  learned  by 
seeing  an  Advocate  which  I  had  left,  and  by  the 
absence  of  her  victim,  the  object  of  our  mission. 

We  heard  her  expressions  of  rage  in  silence  ; 
but  in  our  hearts  were  thanking  the  Lord  that  our 
object  was  effected.  Among  other  things,  she 
said  with  much  emphasis,  that  it  was  well  for  me 
she  did  not  know  at  the  time  that  one  of  the  mor- 
al reform  women  was  in  her  house.  She  asserted 
that  she  and  her  husband  kept  the  house,  and  pre- 
sented her  certificate  of  marriage,  saying  that  they 
had  a  perfect  right  to  board  whom  they  pleased, 
and  no  one  need  interfere.  Finding  she  could 
provoke  no  reply,  and  obtain  nothing  by  prolong- 
ing her  call,  she  left,  exhibiting  in  language  and 
manner  the  spirit  that  is  from  beneath.  After  she 
had  gone,  a  consultation  was  held  concerning  the 
best  course  to  be  taken  for  the  further  rescue  of 
the  child.  Learning  that  she  had  a  pious  aunt 
living  in  a  retired  country  place,  the  mother  was 
advised  to  employ  an  officer  to  obtain  her  clothes, 
and  send  her  there  without  delay.  She  had  an 
20* 


234 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


elder  sister  who  was  a  member  of  the  church, 
and  would  accompany  her,  if  means  could  be  pro- 
vided to  pay  the  fare.  Feeling  that  prayer  had 
been  heard  thus  far,  encouragement  was  given  to 
the  weeping  mother,  that  all  that  should  be  found 
necessary  could  be  accomplished. 

1th.  Yesterday,  by  applying  to  a  few  friends, 
and  availing  myself  of  a  small  amount  sent  from 
abroad  to  aid  the  visiting  committee,  I  carried  to 
the  mother,  for  whom  I  had  felt  so  deep  an  inter- 
est, the  funds  requisite  to  take  her  daughter  to  a 
place  of  greater  safety,  and  now  have  the  satisfac- 
tion of  knowing  that  with  her  sister  she  took  pas- 
sage this  morning  for  her  place  of  destination. 
The  officer  who  was  sent  for  her  clothes  succeed- 
ed in  obtaining  them,  but  could  not  be  induced  to 
make  any  efforts  to  have  this  rendezvous  of  crime 
abandoned.  The  mother,  moved  by  the  circum- 
stances of  trial  that  had  wrung  her  heart,  appealed 
to  him  in  vain  in  behalf  of  others.  His  reply  was 
that  she  might  think  herself  well  off  that  she  had 
obtained  her  child. 

There  has  been  a  train  of  circumstances  con- 
nected with  this  case,  peculiarly  affecting,  which 
it  is  impossible  to  relate  as  a  whole,  so  that  they 
will  be  justly  appreciated.  The  mother  was  al- 
most a  stranger  in  the  city,  truly  deserving,  but 
with  five  fatherless  children  reduced  to  penury. 
Inability  to  satisfy  the  wants  of  all  dependant  on 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


235 


her,  led  this  child  to  leave  her  home.  After  the 
fear  arose  that  instead  of  being  murdered  she 
might  be  in  a  house  of  death,  the  mother  recol- 
lected that  she  had  some  months  since  seen  one 
number  of  the  Advocate,  and  was  told  by  the  lady 
who  gave  it  her,  that  the  object  of  the  ladies  who 
published  it  was  the  prevention  of  crime.  She 
then  began  to  pray  that  the  Lord  would  direct  her 
to  some  one  of  this  society  for  counsel ;  and  by  a 
singular  train  of  providences  she  was  at  length 
led  to  my  residence.  Her  child  appeared  truly 
penitent  and  it  is  hoped  that  the  grace  of  God  may 
yet  purify  her  heart,  and  save  her  ruined  soul. 

10th.  Some  portion  of  the  labors  of  this  day  has 
been  truly  delightful.  It  has  been  my  privilege 
to  read  the  word  of  God  to  a  believing  disciple, 
who  supposes  she  has  been  converted,  on  her 
sick-  couch,  through  this  instrumentality.  She 
was  never  taught  to  read,  and  when  I  first  found 
her,  was  groping  in  all  the  mental  darkness  of 
heathenism.  I  have  visited  her  from  day  to  day, 
and  read  to  her  the  blessed  words  of  life  and  sal- 
vation. She  seems  to  have  received  the  truth  in 
the  love  of  it,  and  to  be  rejoicing  in  that  liberty 
wherewith  Christ  makes  free. 

Sick  youth. — June  3d.  Visiting  this  morning 
from  house  to  house,  in  the  upper  part  of  the  city, 
as  I  passed  an  open  door,  I  saw  a  young  man  who 
was  sick,  sitting  bolstered  in  his  chair.    His  dis- 


236  WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


ease  was  inflammatory  rheumatism,  of  the  most 
excruciating  kind.  His  youth  and  extreme  suffer- 
ing arrested  my  attention,  and  filled  my  heart  with 
love  and  compassion.  I  proceeded  to  converse 
with  him,  and  said,  "  My  child,  you  are  a  great 
sufferer,  but  you  have  a  compassionate  Savior,  and 
you  must  be  thankful  that  you  have  your  reason, 
and  can  pray  to  him."  He  was  silent,  and  I  pro- 
posed prayer,  to  which  he  objected,  saying  he 
never  heard  a  woman  pray.  His  sister,  who  was 
sitting  by  his  side,  remarked,  "  What  matter 
whether  it  is  a  father  or  mother  prays,  so  the  Lord 
blesses,  I  am  sure  a  blessing  is  what  we  need." 
On  conversing  with  him  farther,  I  found  he  was  a 
Scotchman  by  birth,  that  he  had  been  religiously 
educated,  and  especially  taught  to  reverence  the 
Sabbath.  He  came  to  this  city  and  engaged  in 
business  which  interfered  with  the  proper  obser- 
vance of  that  holy  day.  It  seemed,  as  he  ex- 
pressed it,  that  the  judgments  of  Almighty  God 
had  followed  him  ever  since,  blighting  his  pros- 
pects and  destroying  his  hopes.  He  was  resolved 
to  give  it  up.  I  left  him  without  prayer,  and  short- 
ly aftei  called  again.  I  now  found  him  in  an  in- 
teresting state  of  mind.  The  Spirit  of  God  had 
evidently  been  there,  calling  his  attention  to  the 
concerns  of  his  soul.  He  now  asked  me  to  pray. 
I  enjoyed  a  very  precious  season,  and  left  full  of 
hope  that  the  whole  family,  whose  attention  seemed 
called  to  the  subject  of  religion,  might  be  converted. 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


237 


CHAPTER  XII. 

Vis»t  at  Sing  Sing  prison. — Inhuman  father. — Colored  orphan 
asylum.— An  honest  hour. — Visit  in  the  country. — Interview 
with  a  French  hidy. — Inebriate  reclaimed. — Repentance  de- 
layed.— Family  of  Canadians. — Death  without  hope. — The 
Sunday  scholar  who  loved  his  bible. — The  aged  saint  who 
abode  on  Pisgah. — The  sick-boy  and  his  .Utile  friend. — Con- 
version of  Mrs.  R. — The  German  Sabbath  school. — The 
coffin  warehouse.— Faithfulness  rewarded. 

Passing  through  the  Sound,  a  short  time  since, 
I  presented  the  Advocate  to  the  chambermaid,  who 
hailed  it  as  an  old  acquaintance,  remarking  that 
she  used  to  have  it  left  in  the  cabin  of  the  boat, 
until  requested  by  the  captain  to  have  it  discon- 
tinued. He  said  he  did  not  like  to  see  it.  She 
was  surprised,  though  she  complied  with  the  re- 
quest. She  observed,  however,  that  an  occurrence 
on  board  the  boat  the  past  week  had  satisfied  her 
as  to  the  reason  why  he  did  not  like  to  see  the 
Advocate.  She  said  a  woman  who  was  frequent- 
ly a  passenger,  had  requested  her  to  call  at  

street,  No.  ,  and  receive  a  present  for  her 

kindness  to  her  while  travelling.  She  called  and 
had  an  interview  with  her  when  she  revealed  the 
character  of  her  house ;  assured  her  that  on  her 
arrival  that  morning  she  found  the  house  well 
filled !  that  none  but  respectable  gentlemen  visited 


238 


WALKS   OF  USEFFLKKSS. 


it,  and  that  among  the  number  was  the  captain  of 
the  boat  in  which  she  was  chambermaid.  This 
explained  to  her  the  reason  icliy  he  did  not  like  to 
see  the  Advocate.  This  woman  presented  her  a 
beautiful  article  of  clothing,  and  placed  in  her 
hands  a  pack  of  cards  with  her  name  and  number 
elegantly  engraved  on  the  face,  and  requested  he^ 
to  distribute  them  among  the  passengers  of  the 
boat,  as  she  had  opportunity.  The  girl  was  asked 
if  she  complied  with  the  request ;  to  which  she 
replied  in  the  negative,  saying,  "  the  Advocate 
had  taught  her  better  than  that."  Thus  the  pain- 
ful evidence  is  forced  upon  us  from  every  quarter, 
that  all  the  avenues  leading  to  and  from  the  city, 
are  infected  with  harpies  in  quest  of  prey.  In 
view  of  these  facts,  let  the  unsuspecting  beware  ! 

Visit  at  Sing  Sing  prison. — Jujie  iSlh.  Visited 
the  state  prison  at  Sing  Sing.  Intelligence  had 
been  received  of  an  interesting  work  of  grace 
among  the  convicts,  and  a  desire  to  witness  the 
fruits  of  the  Spirit  in  the  case  of  those  who  for 
crime  had  forfeited  their  liberty,  as  well  as  the 
hope  of  being  able  to  do  something  in  the  cause 
of  benevolence,  led  us  forward.  Our  hearts 
were  much  encouraged  and  our  faith  greatly 
strengthened  by  the  visit. 

The  matron  who  has  charge  of  the  female  con- 
victs, seems  to  be  a  woman  well  qualified  for  her 
station.    She  appeared  uniformly  kind  and  affec- 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS, 


239 


tionate  to  those  under  her  care  ;  and  this  alTection 
and  kindness  has  led  them  to  respect  and  confide 
in  her.  Thus  they  are  induced  to  Usten  to  in- 
struction, and  notwithstanding  their  former  charac- 
ter, they  now  appear  softened  and  subdued. 

One  colored  woman  who  had  before  her  arrest 
cast  off  all  restraint,  and  gloried  in  her  shame  and 
wickedness — who  would  submit  to  no  control  even 
under  severe  discipline,  by  the  steady  kindness 
and  persevering  efforts  of  the  matron,  has  been 
reformed,  taught  to  read  the  book  of  God,  and  to 
regulate  her  heart  and  life  by  its  precepts. 

This  case,  and  numerous  others  of  a  similar 
character,  evince  what  may  be  done  by  the  per- 
severing kindness  and  faithfulness  of  a  Christian 
woman.  Every  department  of  female  labor  was 
marked  for  the  neatness  and  quiet  order  which 
prevailed,  affording  an  example  worthy  of  imita- 
tion in  all  similar  establishments.  Would  it  not 
be  well  if  a  judicious  Christian  female,  forbearing 
and  kind  in  her  deportment,  were  placed  in  charge 
of  the  females  in  other  prisons  ?  Placed  there  as 
they  are  without  any  employment,  with  no  one  to 
speak  to  them  the  word  of  kindness,  or  look  after 
their  spiritual  wants,  it  is  no  marvel  that  they  pre- 
pare for  deeper  degrajjlation  and  darker  deeds  of 
sin. 

In  visiting  the  female  convicts  at  their  cells  on 
Sabbath  morning,  after  sabbath  school,  which  un- 


240 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


der  the  customary  regulations  we  were  permitted 
to  do,  we  found  nearly  all  employed  in  reading 
their  bibles.  We  conversed  with  them  respecting 
the  welfare  of  their  souls,  and  as  we  knelt  with 
them  at  the  throne  of  grace,  they  on  the  one 
side  of  the  grated  door  and  we  on  the  other, 
we  felt  that  He  who  healed  a  Mary  Magdalene, 
is  still  the  same  compassionate  Savior,  and  our 
faith,  we  trust,  apprehended  him  as  the  great 
atoning  sacrifice,  who  bore  our  sins  in  his  own 
body  on  the  tree,  and  opened  a  way  for  the  salva- 
tion of  even  the  chief  of  sinners. 

14  th.  We  spent  an  hour  this  morning  in  walk- 
mg  over  the  department  of  the  prison  appropriated 
to  the  male  convicts.  These  amount  to  nearly  800, 
confined  for  a  longer  or  a  shorter  period,  the  safety 
of  community  rendering  it  necessary  that  they 
should  be  confined  without  the  power  to  commit 
crime,  and  all  employed  in  labors  useful  to  others 
as  well  as  themselves.  The  agent,  and  chaplain, 
and  under-keepers,  appear  to  be  assiduous  and  un- 
wearied in  their  eflforts  for  the  moral  and  spiritual 
good  of  those  committed  for  a  season  to  their 
charge.  0 !  that  Christians  would  make  these 
convicts  the  subject  of  their  fervent  earnest  pray- 
ers. The  interest  and  safcty  of  society  require 
that  they  should  be  for  a  time  shut  out  from  those 
privileges  which  they  have  forfeited ;  and  their 
situation  is  peculiarly  favorable  for  reflection. 


WALKS  or  trsEF(/L?.'f:ssf. 


241 


They  hold  no  communication  with  any  one  ;  from 
solitude  they  are  called  to  labor,  and  from  labor 
they  return  to  solitude.  Thus  months  ^nd  years 
pass  away.  When  not  laboring  they  have  nothing 
to  do  but  think,  think.  These  opportunities  for 
reflection  should  be  sanctified  by  the  prayers  of 
God's  people,  that  imprisonment  on  earth  may 
be,  by  the  blessing  of  Heaven,  the  occasion  of  their 
being  made  free  in  Jesus  Christ. 

Inhuman  father. — July  4th.  When  shall  we 
learn  to  celebrate  this  great  national  festival  as 
becomes  rational  beings !  A  few  days  since  I 
called  upon  a  poor  woman,  apparently  dying  with 
consumption  ;  and  of  all  the  scenes  of  wretched- 
ness I  have  ever  witnessed  (and  they  have  been 
not  a  few),  this  was  the  most  painful.  The  hus- 
band, that  he  might  be  in  time,  as  he  said,  had 
already  begim  to  keep  the  fourth  of  July,  and  was 
lying  drunk  on  the  floor.  Not  content  with  this 
abominable  exhibition  of  depravity,  he  had  made 
one  of  his  children,  a  small  boy,  as  drunk  as  him- 
self. The  poor  emaciated  wife  lay  there,  com- 
pelled to  witness  this  scene  of  wretchedness  and 
degradation.  She  told  me  that  her  husband  earned 
his  dollar  a  day  when  sober,  yet  they  were  desti- 
tute of  the  most  common  comforts  of  life.  Nearly 
all  his  earnings  were  spent  at  a  certain  grocer's 
in  the  neighborhood,  and  when  his  money  was 
gone,  he  would  trust  him  for  liquor.    My  soul 


242 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


was  SO  pained  at  this  sight  of  misery,  that  I  re- 
solved to  go  to  the  grocer,  and  plead  with  him  to 
cease  this  horrid  traffic.  I  found  the  wife  waiting 
on  customers  in  the  absence  of  her  husband,  and 
addressed  myself  to  her.  I  begged  her  to  go  and 
visit  this  wretched  abode,  and  witness  the  fruit 
of  her  labors.  She  went  and  took  to  the  suffer- 
ing woman  some  of  the  comforts  of  life,  and  on 
her  return,  she  told  me  that  her  resolution  was 
taken,  solemnly^  never  more  to  sell  rum.  Reader, 
this  is  one  of  the  numerous  cases  of  the  kind 
which  the  visiting  committee  of  this  society  are 
compelled  to  witness.  The  description  fails  short 
of  the  reality.  If  we  expostulate  with  them,  "  I 
have  my  license,  ma'am,"  is  the  reply,  which  we 
can  not  doubt,  when  we  recollect  that  there  are 
two  thousand  seven  hundred  and  fifty-seven  li- 
censed liquor  stores  in  the  city.  O  !  could  these 
venders  of  "  liquid  poison"  realize  their  tremen- 
dous responsibilities,  how  would  they  tremble  in 
view  of  the  righteous  judgments  of  God.  Could 
they  take  one  look  into  futurity,  and  contemplate 
the  scenes  of  the  judgment,  when  the  drunken 
husband,  the  abused  wife,  and  the  ruined  children, 
shall  appear  as  swift  witnesses  against  them,  how 
would  they  call  on  the  mountains  and  rocks  to  fall 
on  them,  and  cover  them  from  the  face  of  Him 
that  sitteth  on  the  throne,  and  from  the  wTath  of 
the  Lamb. 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


243 


July  24th.  I  called  to-day  on  the  sick  and  af- 
flicted mother  alluded  to  above,  and  learned  that 
her  little  son  did  not  long  survive  the  effects  of 
the  liquid  poison.  Sorrow  and  disease  are  fast 
hastening  her  departure,  but  through  faith  in  Je- 
sus, she  is  enabled  to  regard  death  as  a  wel- 
come messenger.  Knowing  her  destitution  of  the 
necessaries  of  sickness,  I  had  provided  several 
articles  of  food  and  drink,  which  were  most  grate- 
fully received.  A  child  had  the  care  of  her,  and 
the  filthy  condition  of  her  apartments,  heated  and 
confined  in  consequence  of  sickness,  made  the  air 
almost  intolerable.  It  seemed  a  deed  of  charity 
to  employ  a  woman,  and  have  the  place  thoroughly 
cleansed.  I  said  to  the  sick  mother,  if  she  was 
a  Christian,  as  we  hope,  she  v/as  soon  going  to  a 
very  clean  place,  and  she  must  have  a  clean  place 
to  die.  I  remained  by  her  till  the  work  was 
done,  and  the  smell  of  the  lime  was  indeed  reviv- 
ing. While  it  was  going  on,  I  was  permitted  to 
sing  to  her  tlie  hymn,  "  The  Lord  will  provide." 
She  was  much  comforted,  and  her  faith  received 
new  strength  from  the  promises.  In  another  poor 
family  visited,  where  sickness  and  poverty  had 
rendered  the  air  of  the  apartments  equally  un- 
healthy, I  found  the  application  of  lime  and  water 
indispensable.  Those  v.'ho  have  never  breathed 
in  the  polluted  atmosphere  of  some  portions  of  our 
city,  during  this  season  of  the  year,  can  scarcely 


244 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


conceive  of  its  offensiveness.  There  are  certain 
sections  of  almost  every  district  that  we  visit, 
where  the  stench,  arising  from  uncleanliness,  is 
as  disgusting  to  the  natural  sense,  as  the  moral 
stench,  that  is  so  frequently  manifest,  is  to  the 
soul  of  purity.  That  plague  and  fever  do  not  riot 
in  the  mid«t  of  us,  is  owing  only  to  the  forbearing 
mercy  of  our  God. 

Colored  Orphan  Asylum. — 2Sth.  We  visited  this 
afternoon  the  colored  orphan  asylum  in  Twelfth 
street.  Had  unusual  liberty  in  speaking  to  the 
children  and  in  prayer.  It  was  pleasant  to  look 
upon  this  interesting  group,  gathered  by  the  hand 
of  Christian  charity  from  cells  of  poverty  and  of 
crime,  and  feel  that  here  provision  was  made  for 
their  wants,  salutary  restraints  tlirown  about  them, 
and  such  daily  instruction  given  as  will,  with  the 
divine  blessing,  fit  them  to  act  well  their  part  in 
future  life. 

An  honest  hour. — 

"The  work,  the  mighty  work 
Of  life  so  long  delayed— 
Repentance,  yet  to  be  begun 
Upon  a  dying  bed." 

30^/i.  In  my  walks  the  past  month,  I  have  been 
very  much  interested  in  the  case  of  a  poor,  sick 
widow,  who  I  learn  to-day  has  gone  to  her  long 
home.  She  had  one  son,  a  lame  lad,  about  nine 
years  of  age,  who  v/as  her  only  companion.  I 
found  her  in  a  little  cellar  in  V  street.  She 


WALKS    r.i^  USEFULNESS. 


245 


was  a  Protestant  Irisii  woman,  and  appeared  anx- 
ious Ibr  the  salvation  ol"  her  soul.  In  view  of  the 
near  approach  of  death,  she  was  led  to  inquire 
what  she  should  do  to  he  saved.  Several  times 
on  visiting  her,  I  i'ound  the  little  boy  crying,  and 
to  my  inquiry,  '*  Why  do  you  cry  ?"  his  reply  was, 
"  I  am  so  troubled  about  mother.  She  cries  all 
night  to  the  Lord  to  save  her  soul,  and  it  makes 
me  ciy  too."  During  a  season  of  prayer,  when 
the  mother  pronounced  "  amen,"  as  a  testimony 
of  her  desire  to  be  heard,  the  little  boy  would  re- 
peat it  with  an  emphasis  which  showed  that  his 
heart  was  not  unaffected.  While  engaged  in 
prayer,  he  would  nestle  close  by  my  side,  and 
manifest  the  most  intense  interest. 

Visit  in  the  (.uunirij. — While  visiting  in  the 
country  the  past  two  weeks,  I  have  been  asked 
many  times,  "What  is  moral  reform  doing?" 
The  answer  frequently  given  has  been,  "  By  the 
blessing  of  God  it  is  preventing  sin  and  sorrow  to 
some  extent ;  it  is  arresting  the  attention  of  moth- 
ers of  all  classes,  and  leading  them  to  inquire  how 
far  they  have  discharged  their  duty  as  parents, 
and  what  remains  to  be  done  ;  and  is  also  leading 
some  who  have  hitherto  dedicated  their  children 
to  the  world,  to  dedicate  them  to  God,  and  plead 
in  faith  that  his  unseen  arm  may  '  shield  them 
from  dangers,  and  guard  them  from  crime. ' " 

Some  who  have  met  me  with  objections,  piled 
21* 


246  WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 

mountains  high,  have  been  entirely  silenced  by  a 
simple  statement  of  facts  I  had  witnessed,  result- 
ing from  these  efforts.  Many  have  said  to  me, 
"  Urge  those  that  are  laboring  '  to  go  on.'  "  One 
brother  says,  "  Never  cease  a  warning  voice 
against  the  theatre,  till  its  shameless  exhibitions 
are  rightly  regarded." 

The  auxiliaries  visited  in  Derby  and  vicinity 

are  actively  engaged.    In  D  the  recent  effort 

of  our  board  in  behalf  of  seamen  met  a  warm  a 
proval,  and  one  life  membership  was  raised  ii 
mediately,  to  aid  this  department.  I  remarked, 
wherever  I  went,  that  those  Christians  who  were 
most  engaged  in  the  cause  of  the  Redeemer,  were 
also  awake  to  the  claims  of  moral  purity,  and 
ready  to  co-operate  with  those  already  enlisted  to 
the  extent  of  their  ability. 

Interview  with  a  French  lady. — Returning  through 
the  Sound  from  New  Haven,  I  had  an  interview 
with  a  French  lady,  in  high  life,  recently  from 
Charleston,  South  Carolina.  An  incident  occur- 
red calculated  to  awaken  the  fears  of  the  timid, 
and  she  became  greatly  excited.  Seeing  me  com- 
posed, she  inquired  why  I  was  not  afraid.  I  told 
her  I  could  always  pray  to  the  Lord  to  take  care 
of  us,  and  my  confidence  in  him  was  so  strong 
that  I  felt  calm,  if  not  happy,  when  in  danger. 
She  appeared  surprised  at  this,  and  made  many 
inquiries,  showing  her  entire  ignorance  of  th© 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


247 


truths  of  religion,  or  the  blessed  and  soul-sustain- 
ing influences  known  and  felt  by  the  heart  that  is 
wholly  yielded  to  its  control.  She  said  the  idea 
of  death  was  horrible  to  her.  O  !  how  I  pitied 
this  poor  woman.  The  trappings  of  wealth  adorn- 
ed her  person,  but  her  possessions  seemed  to  me 
of  less  value  than  dross,  compared  to  a  good  hope 
through  grace.  She  was  open  and  ingenuous, 
and  gave  me  considerable  information  about  the 
state  of  morals  in  Charleston.  Speaking  of  the 
observance  of  the  sabbath  there,  she  said  many 
of  the  people  went  to  some  church  in  the  morn- 
ing, and  then  spent  the  afternoon  in  dancing, 
promenading,  or  other  frivolous  amusements, — 
*'  any  way  to  kill  time."  "  In  winter  they  have 
good  health  and  abundance  of  pleasure,  but  in 
the  summer  they  die  off  by  thousands."  Giving 
her  opinion  of  the  theatre,  she  said  at  this  age  she 
was  losing  her  relish  for  it,  but  loved  to  have  her 
daughter  go.  It  was,  in  her  estimation,  a  fine 
amusement  for  young  people.  Poor  woman !  No 
wonder  she  looked  upon  death  with  such  horror. 

In  answer  to  some  of  her  inquiries,  I  informed 
her  that  most  of  my  time  was  spent  in  visiting  the 
poor,  the  sick  and  suffering,  and  in  trying  to  save 
the  youth  of  our  sex  from  going  in  the  way  of  the 
profligate.  "  All  that  is  very  good,"  said  she,  "  ex- 
cept the  last — you  know  there  must  be  such  peo- 
ple, madame  ?"    "  We  are  both  mothers,"  I  re- 


24.8 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


plied ;  "  now,  if  as  you  say,  there  must  be  such 
persons,  why  not  let  our  children  be  among 
them  ?"  "  0  Madame  !  what !  my  daughter  ?  No, 
never!"  But  if  this  is  "  a  necessary  evil,"  there 
are  parents  whose  daugliters  must  be  sacrificed, 
though  dear  to  them  as  ours  are  to  us. 

"  Do  you  Charleston  ladies  treat  the  libertine 
as  you  would  his  guilty  associate  ?"  "  Not  at  all. 
Public  opinion  does  not  make  it  necessary."  Her 
husband  called  her  away  abruptly,  and  thus  the 
conversation  ended. 

Inebriate  reclaimed. — 15/A.  In  visiting  to-day 
some  fifty  families,  I  have  met  with  much  that  was 
calculated  to  fill  the  heart  with  praise  to  the  dear 
Savior.  His  mercy  to  those  who  trust  him,  and 
his  forbearance  toward  those  who  reject  his  love, 
are  alike,  themes  of  adoring  gi'atitude.  I  learned 
that  the  poor  inebriate,  living  in  this  district,  who 
caused  the  death  of  his  little  son  by  giving  him 
alcohol  last  July,  had  become  a  sober  man.  He 
gave  his  dying  wife  a  pledge  that  he  would  aban- 
don his  cups,  and  he  has  not  since  tasted  of  the 
poison. 

A  mother  in  this  district  with  whom  I  had  much 
conversation,  informed  me  that  the  Advocates  I 
had  given  her  had  opened  her  eyes  to  the  danger 
of  her  child,  and  by  conversing  with  her  she  had 
ascertained  tha*  the  milliner  for  whom  she  worked, 
had  sent  her   laily  to  carry  bonnets  to  places 


WALKS  OF  usp:fulness. 


249 


where  no  child  should  ever  be  sent.  She  has 
taken  her  away,  and  says  she  shall  gain  a  living 
by  gathering  rags  in  the  street,  rather  than  be  thus 
exposed. 

Repentance  delayed. — 22d.  Was  sent  for  this 
morning  to  pray  with  an  aged  woman  just  on  the 
verge  of  eternity,  and  writhing  under  the  pangs 
of  remorse.  One  year  since  I  was  in  her  house, 
and  asked  the  privilege  of  praying  with  her  but 
was  refused.  Now,  as  death  approaches,  she  de- 
sires prayer  to  be  offered,  but  evinces  no  penitence. 
A  certain  fearful  looking  for  of  judgment  has 
awakened  her  from  her  dream  of  security,  and  she 
wouid  fain  seek  relief,  but  knows  not  where  to 
'look.  Sh«e  informed  me  that  about  twenty  years 
since,  she  was  deeply  convicted  of  her  lost  con- 
dition, and  the  offer  of  salvation  was  pressed  home 
upon  her,  asid  sh-e  was  almost  persuaded  to  be  a 
Christian ;  but  she  was  then  enjoying  the  world, 
surrounded  with  gay  society,  and  found  it  difficult 
to  give  it  up.  While  in  this  state  of  indecision, 
after  she  had  retired  one  evening,  her  sleeping 
thoughts  were  arrested  with  the  scene  described 
in  the  New  Testament,  where  our  Lord  was 
brought  before  Pilate  and  rejected  of  the  Jews. 
The  transaction  had  to  her  mind  all  the  vividness 
of  a  living  reality,  and  she  realized  herself  an  ac- 
tor in  the  scene,  and  one  of  the  number  who 
silently  consented  to  his  death.    On  seeing  the 


250 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


great  question  decided,  her  reflections  were  so 
painful  that  she  awoke,  and  exclaimed,  "  Why  did 
I  not  say,  give  me  Jesus  ?"  His  salvation  was 
again  presented  by  the  Spirit,  and  her  acceptance 
invited,  but  she  again  put  it  off  till  '^a  more  con- 
venient season,"  and  she  says  from  that  time  to 
the  present  she  has  felt  an  entire  apathy  with  re- 
gard to  religion  ;  and  now,  in  view  of  her  last 
change,  a  darkness  has  come  over  her  that  is  al- 
most insupportable.  In  another  dwelling  found  a 
mother  with  five  fatherless  children,  who  were  en- 
tirely destitute  of  means  to  supply  their  necessary 
wants.  Providentially  I  had  with  me  three  dol- 
lars, given  me  by  a  lady  in  Utica  to  be  expended 
among  the  desen'ing  poor,  and  the  aid  I  was  thus 
enabled  to  render,  caused  this  widow's  heart  to 
sing  for  joy.  Could  the  kind  donor  have  seen  the 
gratitude  of  this  distressed  mother,  she  would 
have  felt  that  "  it  is  more  blessed  to  give  than  to 
receive." 

I  called  also  to  see  iJie  family  alluded  to  above, 
and  found  the  father  as  there  represented,  truly  in 
earnest  about  a  thorough  reformation.  As  I  enter- 
ed, he  remarked,  "  I  believe  you  are  the  lady  who 
\'isited  my  poor  wife."  I  assented,  and  he  sat 
down,  and  covered  his  face,  and  wept  excessively. 
I  inquired  if  he  was  not  well.  "  Yes,"  he  said, 
**  but  I'm  a  distressed  man.  My  intemperance  has 
murdered  my  child,  and  brought  down  my  wife 


•V^'ALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


251 


in  sorrow  to  the  grave  !  and  I  know  not  as  there 
can  be  any  mercy  for  such  a  miserable  sinner !"  I 
encouraged  him  to  apply  to  the  Great  Physician, 
assuring  him  that  the  promises  of  the  gospel 
reached  his  case,  and  he  need  not  despair.  He 
entreated  prayer,  and,  during  the  exercise,  uttered 
several  times  with  manifest  brokenness  of  heart, 
"  God  be  merciful  to  me,  a  sinner."  Before  I  left 
him,  he  promised,  vile  as  he  was,  to  make  an  un- 
reserved surrender  of  all  his  powers  to  the  service 
of  God.  He  had  recently  brought  his  mother 
from  the  coiintry  to  take  care  of  his  five  children* 
and  the  appearance  of  his  family  and  his  dwelling' 
compared  with  what  it  had  been,  was  tidy  and 
comfortable.* 

Family  of  Canadians -Dec.  4th,  Several  months 
since,  while  visiting  in  a  destitute  neighborhood, 
I  became  deeply  interested  in  a  family  of  Cana- 
dians. Both  sickness  and  poverty  made  them  ob- 
jects of  compassion.  The  mother  was  ill,  and 
one  of  the  six  children  had  been  for  a  long  time 
a  great  sufferer  from  a  white  swelling.  The 
father  attended  the  Roman  catholic  church,  when 
he  went  to  any,  and  the  mother  had  been  brought 
up  under  the  same  influence,  and  in  extreme  igno- 
rance.   The  fear  of  death,  and  her  dark  unhappy 

•  This  man  was  subsequently  converted,  and  has  since  led  a 
anoral  and  religious  life,  and  also  been  the  means  of  the  salva- 
\jon  of  others. 


252 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


State,  distressed  her  greatly,  and  she  seemed  to 
feel  it  a  privilege  to  unbosom  to  me  the  sorrows 
she  had  hitherto  locked  in  her  own  breast.  She 
said  she  did  not  know  the  right  way  to  serve  God. 
She  had  been  taught  to  pray  to  the  saints,  and  to 
the  Virgin  Mary ;  but  when  she  did  so  her  mind 
was  not  satisfied ;  her  sins  weighed  heavily,  and 
she  wanted  to  go  to  one  that  was  able  to  help  her. 
I  directed  her  to  Jesus,  read  to  her  from  his  own 
words,  and  endeavored  to  explain  to  her  the  great 
salvation.  She  wept,  but  her  mind  was  still  dark, 
and  I  could  only  commend  her  to  God.  On  leav- 
ing I  gave  her  my  address  that  she  might  send 
for  me,  should  she  wish  to  do  so.  While  I  was 
in  the  country  they  removed  to  another  neighbor- 
hood, and  I  lost  sight  of  them.  On  Saturday  last 
a  messenger  came  to  inform  me  where  they  lived, 
and  request  me  to  call  immediately.  I  found  the 
mother  more  deeply  convicted.  She  said  there 
seemed  a  mountain  weight  upon  her  heart,  and 
she  knew  not  how  to  get  relief.  I  directed  her 
to  the  Savior,  assuring  her  none,  however  vile  or 
degraded  had  ever  gone  to  him  "  with  a  broken 
and  contrite  heart,"  and  been  rejected ;  referred  to 
the  case  of  the  beggar,  blind  Bartimeus,  the  thief 
upon  the  cross,  and  the  blessed  promise,  "  Ilim 
that  cometh  unto  me  I  will  in  no  wise  cast  out." 

To-day  went  again  to  see  her,  and  found  her 
lejoicing  in  the  hope  that  her  sins  are  pardoned. 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


253 


"  Oh !"  said  she,  "  I  have  got  such  a  load  rolled 
off;  I  do  love  the  Lord  Jesus ;  that  word,  '  him 
that  cometh  unto  me,'  is  enough ;  Christ  has  said 
it ;  I  am  happy,  though  I  am  sick  and  poor ;  I  can 
trust  these  helpless  children,  and  my  all  with  the 
Lord."  She  expressed  many  thanks  that  I  had 
so  often  visited  her  and  given  her  kind  instructio»^ 
and  told  me  that  no  person  had  ever  before  con- 
versed with  her  about  the  soul,  and  Christ,  and 
heaven. 

28/^.  To-day  the  poor  Canadian  woman,  has  bid 
a  last  farewell  to  her  little  family,  and  gon?e  to  try 
the  realities  of  eternity.  Her  poor  husband  sent 
for  me,  and  seemed  to  feel  that  I  could  do  some- 
thing to  comfort  ^im  under  his  severe*  afffiction. 
He  asked  with  streaming  eyes,  what  he  should  do 
with  his  little  babe  (an  infant  of  two  monthb). 
He  was  too  poor  to  provide  a  aurse  for  it,  and  its, 
plaintive  cries  made  his  heart  ache.  I  went  out 
and  found  a  woman  who  consented  to  take  care 
of  it,  till  some  better  arrangement  could  be  made. 

30  M.  Yesterday  found  a  lady  of  wealth  and 
piety,  who  was  willing  to  adopt  a  motherless  babe, 
and  having  obtained  the  father's  consent  to  part 
with  it,  I  went  with  her  to  take  it  away.  A  little 
prattler,  who  observed  us  wrapping  up  the  infant, 
and  was  asked  if  she  was  not  sorry  they  were 
going  to  take  her  away,  replied  in  broken  accents, 
"  My  ma  stays  so  long  in  the  ground,,  and  baby 
22 


254 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


cries  so,  we  can't  take  care  of  it."  O  what  cause 
for  gratitude  have  mothers  who  are  spared  to  rear 
their  tender  offspring.  Few  that  enjoy  Hfe  and 
health,  offer  to  God  the  daily  tribute  of  praise  fo: 
this  blessing,  that  they  ought.  A  neighbor  whr^ 
had  come  in  to  sympathize  with  the  afflicted,  re 
quested  me  to  go  with  her  to  see  a  family  who 
were  in  distress.  I  went  and  found  a  poor  woman 
in  great  suffering,  both  of  body  and  mind.  She 
felt  that  the  king  of  terrors  was  approaching,  and 
tliough  she  had  once  indulged  a  hope,  and  united 
with  the  church,  she  had  so  far  backslidden  that 
every  prospect  before  her  was  shrouded.  As  I 
approached  her  bed,  she  looked  up  imploringly, 
and  inquired  if  I  could  pray?  My  heart  was 
deeply  affected  by  her  conversation,  and  feeling 
constrained  to  call  on  the  Lord,  notwithstanding 
her  infidel  husband  was  present,  I  asked  him  if  he 
would  stop  his  hammer  for  a  few  moments  (he 
was  working  at  shoes),  saying  I  could  not  leave 
without  prayer.  He  made  no  reply,  but  increased 
his  noise.  I  told  him  with  tears  that  he  must 
stop  that  hammer  for  five  minutes,  and  if  he  would 
not  at  my  request,  the  Lord  would  make  him  de- 
sist ;  it  was  a  house  of  death,  and  he  too  must  in 
a  little  while  lie  down  cold  and  still  in  the  grave 
whither  his  poor  wife  was  going.  He  was  made 
to  be  still,  and  for  a  little  season  the  Spirit  from 
on  high  seemed  to  fill  the  room  with  his  presence 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


255 


Death  without  hope. — 2\st.  To-day  called  again, 
and  found  the  backslider  had  gone  to  render  her 
last  account.  There  is  little  reason  to  suppose 
that  the  righteous  Judge  has  said  of  her,  "  She 
that  is  holy,  let  her  be  holy  still."  When  in  life 
and  health,  she  had  neglected  her  closet,  dishon- 
ored her  Savior,  and  disobeyed  his  command- 
ments. Her  last  hours,  as  might  have  been  ex- 
pected, were  filled  with  gloomy  forebodings,  and 
her  sun  went  down  in  darkness.  From  her  own 
account,  her  first  departure  from  God  commenced 
with  marrying  an  impenitent  husband.  When 
they  went  to  housekeeping,  being  poor,  and  hav- 
ing but  one  room,  where  she  was  exposed  to  con- 
stant interruptions,  she  made  this  an  excuse  for 
giving  up  secret  prayer — and  to  this  beginning  of 
evil  she  imputed  all  her  subsequent  delinquencies. 
Her  temptations  were  indeed  very  sore  ;  but  oh, 
how  much  easier  would  it  have  been,  to  have 
borne  them  like  a  Christian,  than  to  bear  for  one 
moment  the  frown  of  an  offended  Savior.  A 
Christian  might  as  well  think  of  giving  up  his 
daily  food,  and  living  on  air,  as  to  think  of  giving 
up  secret  prayer,  and  have  his  soul  enjoy  any  de- 
gree of  spiritual  life.  There  are  doubtless  many 
of  the  Lord's  poor  who  can  not  command  a  closet. 
Let  such  remember  that  the  blessed  Jesus  com- 
passionates their  case  ;  and  if  they  love  him  su- 
premely, they  have  only  to  ask  in  faith,  and  he 


256 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


will  give  them  some  place  where  they  may  enjoy 
his  presence.  True,  a  closet  is  exceedingly  de- 
sirable, and  those  who  have  a  retired  room,  where 
they  can  at  any  time  be  alone  with  God,  can  not 
be  sufficiently  grateful ;  but  if,  in  the  providence 
of  God,  this  privilege  is  denied,  it  need  not  destroy 
the  peace  of  his  children.  There  are  promises 
adapted  to  every  case  ;  and  the  command,  "  Pray 
without  ceasing,"  contemplates  the  state  of  heart 
in  which  the  Christian  should  be  found  at  all 
timei,  and  under  all  circumstances. 

The  Sundaij  scholar  who  loved  his  hihle. — In  an- 
other family  met  with  a  mother  very  ill  with  in- 
flammatory rheumatism,  with  no  one  to  take  care 
of  her  but  a  little  son  some  nine  or  ten  years  old. 
She  was  unable  to  help  herself;  and  as  1  entered 
the  room,  the  little  fellow  was  feeding  her,  with 
care  and  tenderness.  During  the  interview,  she 
stated  that  her  husband  had  left  her  for  another  ;  by 
over-exertion  and  exposure,  she  had  brought  on 
disease,  and  but  for  this  dear  boy  she  would  be 
very  desolate.  She  had  no  hope  in  Christ  ;  but 
she  said  her  child  went  to  the  sabbath-school,  and 
he  loved  his  bible,  read  it  to  her  every  day,  and 
was  a  great  comfort  to  her.  Her  mind  seemed 
tenderly  impressed,  and  I  trust  she  will  soon  be- 
come a  subject  of  renewing  grace. 

The  aged  saint  who  abode  on  Pisgah. — Jan.  I2tk, 
1841.   Met  an  aged  sifter  over  seventy,  living 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNES-S. 


257 


alone  in  a  low  basement.  She  said  she  had  trust- 
ed in  Jesus  forty  years,  and  he  had  never  left  her 
.to  want  for  bread.  Since  the  infirmities  of  age 
had  come  upon  her,  and  she  had  been  unable  to 
work,  the  Lord  had  provided  for  her,  by  opening 
the  hearts  of  the  benevolent,  and  inclining  them 
to  "  supply  her  need"  without  solicitation.  I  said 
to  her,  "  Are  you  not  lonely  ?"  "  O,  no,"  was  her 
reply,  "  Jesus  is  near  me  all  the  lime."  "  Are  you 
wholly  dependant  on  charity  ?"  "  Yes,  but  I  am 
happy — I  want  no  good  thing  ;  and  I  have  such 
manifestations  of  the  love  of  Christ,  that  I  abide 
on  the  top  of  Pisgah."  '*  Is  your  faith  always 
strong  ?"  "  Yes,  always  ;  and  this  is  what  makes 
me  so  happy.  Oh,  that  all  would  believe,  as  I  do, 
the  precious  words  of  Jesus." 

My  heart  was  warmed,  and  filled  with  praise, 
by  this  interview  ;  and  though  I  was  cold  and 
tired,  I  wanted  to  retrace  my  steps,  and  tell  to  the 
ungrateful,  the  hard-hearted,  the  dissatisfied,  and 
the  sorrowful,  with  whom  I  had  been  conversing, 
what  religion  could  do  for  one  who  had  no  more 
of  earthly  good  that  she  could  call  her  own  than 
themselves. 

The  sick  hoy  and  his  little  friend. —  loth.  Called 
again  on  the  sick  mother  alluded  to  at  the  close 
of  a  late  report.  Both  herself  and  child  mani-^ 
fested  much  pleasure  at  my  coming.  At  my  first 
call,  the  filial  tenderness  exhibited  by  the  dear 
22* 


258 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


boy  led  me  to  offer  him,  by  way  of  encouragement, 
a  penny  for  every  proof-text  he  should  learn  from 
his  bible,  till  I  came  again.  Soon  after  I  entered, 
he  came  to  me,  saying  he  had  committed  thirty 
verses,  and  repeated  them  at  once  very  accurately. 
His  promised  reward  was  presented,  and  received 
with  gratitude — when  away  he  ran  up  the  alley, 
indicating  by  his  haste,  that  he  had  some  favorite 
plan  to  accomplish.  "  I  suppose  he  is  gone,"  said 
his  mother,  "  to  divide  his  money  with  one  of  his 
little  class-mates,  near  by,  who  is  very  sick."  Be- 
fore I  left,  he  returned  again,  with  "  cheerful  air 
and  smiling  face,"  though  I  thought  I  perceived  a 
shade  of  sadness  on  his  otherwise  happy  counte- 
nance. Calling  him  to  me,  I  took  his  hand  and 
said,  "  Where  have  you  been,  my  child  ?"  "  To 
see  little  James,"  he  replied,  "  that  has  the  scarlet 
fever ;  and  the  doctor  says  he  can  not  live — and 
his  little  brother  and  sister  are  both  very  sick  with 
it.  He  told  me  yesterday  he  wanted  a  baked  ap- 
ple, but  his  mother  was  so  poor,  and  had  so  much 
to  do,  he  did  not  like  to  ask  her  for  it.  I  told  him, 
when  I  got  my  present  from  the  lady  who  came 
to  see  my  mother,  I  would  divide  it  with  him  ; 
and  so  I  have  been  and  got  him  some  apples,  and 
I'm  very  sorry  for  him."  A  word  of  approval  was 
uttered,  and  the  inquiry  made,  how  he  came  to  be 
so  thoughtful  of  little  James.  "  Why,"  said  he, 
"  he  is  about  my  age,  and  we  are  in  the  same 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


259 


class  in  Sunday-school,  uiid  I  love  him  very 
much.  Our  tcachnr  says  we  must  love  God  with 
all  our  heart,  and  our  neighbor  as  ourselves,  and  I 
love  James  like  myself."  "  Do  you  pray  every 
day  ?"  He  replied,  very  modestly,  "  I've  prayed 
a  great  deal  since  my  mother  has  been  sick :  one 
of  the  neighbors  said,  if  she  died,  I  would  be  sent 
to  the  poor-house  ;  and  I've  prayed  all  the  time 
that  God  would  make  her  well — and  for  little 
James,  too,  that  he  may  get  well." 

His  dear  mother  was  indeed  much  better,  and 
was  still  inquiring  the  way  of  life.  With  many 
entreaties  that  I  would  come  again,  and  also  re- 
member her  at  the  mercy-seat,  she  bade  me  good 
morning.  Wishing  to  see  the  poor  sick  family 
alluded  to  above,  I  requested  their  young  visiter 
to  show  me  where  they  lived.  He  led  the  way, 
and,  when  we  entered  the  house,  walked  directly 
up  to  the  sick  bed,  and  said  to  little  James,  "  This 
is  the  good  lady  who  comes  to  see  my  mother, 
and  gave  me  the  money — and  she  has  come  to  see 
you."  This  was  a  house  of  sorrow.  The  mother 
showed  that  she  had  a  mother's  heart.  She  knew 
that  two  of  her  children  were  given  over,  and 
must  die  soon — and  she  had  no  God  to  go  to  in 
this  hour  of  trial.  Her  dear  sick  child  tried  to 
comfort  her,  but  his  tenderness  only  increased  her 
weeping. 

\Sth.    Called  again  to  see  little  James,  but  he 


260 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


was  "  gone  away" — the  dear  Savior  had  come  to 
take  his  infant  spirit,  and  shelter  it  in  his  own 
kind  bosom.  His  little  brother,  too,  had  also  fol- 
lowed him  to  "  the  world  beyond  the  grave."  The 
poor  mother  seemed  almost  inconsolable.  It  was 
truly  a  place  of  mourning,  and  the  hour  spent  here 
to-day  was  a  solemn,  and  I  trust  may  prove  a 
profitable  one.  It  was  a  good  place  to  pray — to 
get  near  the  Savior's  feet,  and  plead,  with  filial 
confidence,  that  he  would  pour  the  consolations 
of  his  grace  into  the  broken,  bleeding  heart. 

In  conversation,  I  told  the  poor  mother  that  my 
blessed  Master  had  called  me  to  follow  seven 
children  to  the  grave.  He  had  made  the  death 
of  each  one  a  rich  blessing  to  my  soul.  He  had 
since  made  me  a  mother  to  the  motherless  and  the 
orphan,  and  he  had  spared  me,  that  I  might  come 
now  and  tell  her  how  and  wliere  she  might  find 
relief  and  comfort  in  this  day  of  adversity.  She 
seemed  soothed  by  the  interview,  and  expressed  a 
strong  desire  that  this  affliction  might  be  made  a 
means  of  preparing  her  to  follow  the  departed. 

Speaking  of  little  James,  she  seemed  very  con- 
fident that  his  heart  was  changed,  and  that  he 
owed  his  conversion  to  sabbath-school  instruction. 
She  related  the  following  conversation  that  took 
place  between  him  and  his  little  class-mate,  a  day 
or  two  before  his  death.  As  the  dear  boy  went 
to  his  bed  one  morning,  to  inquire  how  he  did, 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


261 


James  informed  him  that  he  was  worse,  and  was 
going  to  die.  "  And  how  does  death  look  to  you, 
dear  James  ?"  "  Oh,"  said  he,  "  it  looks  cold  and 
dark."  "  Well,  you  know  our  teacher  says  we 
must  '  look  to  Jesus.'  Death  is  not  Jesus — don't 
you  look  at  that."  "  I  remember,"  replied  the  dy- 
ing boy,-^'  he  said,  '  Look,  and  live  ;'  and  he  said, 
'  Jesus  took  little  children  in  his  arms  and  blessed 
them.'  How  he  must  have  loved  them !  Our 
teacher  said,  the  smallest  or  the  poorest  child 
might  look  to  him  and  live."  "  You  will  look  to 
him  all  the  time — wont  you,  James  ?"  said  the 
weeping  boy.  He  replied,  Yes,  I  will ;"  and 
from  this  time  till  he  died,  he  repeated  again  and 
again,  "  Look  to  Jesus — look  to  Jesus,"  He  urged 
his  dear  mother  to  look  to  him,  and  believe  in  him, 
and  then  she  would  soon  come  to  heaven,  where 
he  was  going.  He  said  that  he  was  happy,  and 
that,  "  with  his  mind,"  he  saw  Christ  near  him, 
and  was  not  afraid  to  die.  This  was  his  state  of 
feeling  till  he  could  no  longer  speak. 

In  view  of  the  above  facts,  what  Christian  heart 
will  not  bless  God  for  the  influence  of  the  precious 
sabbath-school  ? 

Conversion  of  Mrs,  R  . — Jan.  2\si.  Called 

again  to  see  Mrs.  R  ,  the  mother  of  little  James. 

Found  her  rejoicing  in  the  Lord,  testifying  with 
tears  of  gratitude  that  Jesus  had  become  her  Sav- 
ior and  Redeemer.    The  death  of  her  children, 


262 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


the  State  of  little  James's  mind,  his  dying  request 
that  she  would  "  look  to  Jesus,"  and,  more  than 
all,  the  words  of  Christ,  applied  by  the  Holy 
Spirit,  "  If  ye  die  in  your  sins,  whither  I  go,  ye 
can  not  come,"  wrought  conviction  in  her  soul, 
that  caused  her  to  lie  on  her  face  before  God.  At 
length  she  was  enabled  to  repent  anel  believe. 
She  said  she  now  found  it  very  easy  to  give  up 
her  children  and  her  all,  and  trust  the  Lord  for 
everything. 

German  sabbath- school. — In  a  German  family, 
who  had  been  educated  in  the  Roman  faith,  I 
learned,  by  conversing  with  the  father,  that  he  was 
inquiring  what  he  must  do  to  be  saved."  His 
attention  had  been  arrested  by  passing  a  German 
sabbath-school,  and  listening  to  the  words  they 
were  singing.  He  said  he  was  so  affected  by  it, 
that  he  "  thought  his  hat  was  coming  off."  When 
they  had  done  singing,  he  walked  on,  and  resolved 
to  get  a  German  bible,  and  read  and  search  it  for 
himself. 

Since  the  15th  instant,  have  visited  100  fami- 
lies. In  many  cases,  their  starving  condition,  or 
extreme  destitution,  brought  on  by  crime  or  sick- 
ness, made  it  necessary  to  report  them  to  the  al- 
dermen, that  they  might  have  relief  from  the  alms- 
house provisions. 

2bth.  This  afternoon  attended  a  female  prayet- 
meeting,  that  had  been  appointed  at  the  house  of 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


263 


Mrs.  R  ,  for  the  convenience  of  the  poor 

mothers  in  the  neighborhood.  It  was  well  at- 
tended, and  much  interest  was  manifested. 

The  coffin  ivarehouse. — A  few  days  since,  while 
from  home  without  an  umbrella,  I  was  overtaken 
by  a  storm.  Finding  it  necessary  to  wait  for  it  to 
abate,  I  stepped  into  the  warehouse  of  an  under- 
taker, and  asked  the  privilege  of  remaining  a  few 
moments.  It  was  politely  granted,  and  being  fa- 
tigued, I  sat  down,  and  indulged  in  a  train  of  re- 
flections which  the  objects  that  met  my  sight  were 
calculated  to  inspire.  The  room  was  lined  with 
coffins  of  all  sizes,  made  ready  for  the  dead,  not 
for  the  dead  who  are  already  dead,  but  for  the  liv- 
ing, those  in  life  and  health,  but  who  will  soon 
die.  And  who,  thought  I,  will  occupy  them  ?  Some 
of  the  giddy  throng  who  pass  along  our  streets, 
wholly  unprepared  for  the  summons  of  death.  And 
will  these  coffins  all  be  wanted  ?  Yes  !  0,  yes ! 
more  than  five  hundred  have  gone  from  this  city 
during  the  last  month,  down  to  the  place  of  si- 
lence. And  this  is  less  than  the  average  number 
during  some  seasons  of  the  year  ;  and  as  it  has 
been,  so  it  will  be.  While  sitting  here,  the  un- 
certainty of  life  was  deeply  impressed  on  my 
mind,  and  the  importance  of  having  our  prepara- 
tion-work all  done  each  day,  as  we  would  for  tak- 
ing an  anticipated  journey,  if  we  were  expecting 
the  stage  to  call  for  us  at  a  given  hour. 


264 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


As  I  was  about  to  leave,  an  interesting  youth 
entered  from  an  adjoining  room  with  his  face 
much  scarred  and  bruised.  Feeling  constrained 
to  speak  to  him  about  the  interests  of  his  soul,  I 
remarked  kindly,  "  I'm  sorry,  sir,  to  see  a  young 
man  like  you  with  such  a  face."  "  Excuse  me, 
ma'am,"  he  replied,  "  I've  not  been  fighting,  I 
received  this  injury  by  a  falling  timber  while  I 
was  at  work."  I  begged  his  pardon  for  mistaking 
his  case,  and  then  directing  his  attention  to  the 
state  of  his  heart,  said  to  him,  "  The  Bible  has 
spoken  more  plainly  about  that,  than  I  have  about 
your  face,  and  there  can  be  no  mistake  there.  Its 
language  is,  '  from  the  sole  of  the  foot  even  unto 
the  crown  of  the  head,  there  is  no  soundness  in  it, 
but  wounds  and  bruises  and  putrefying  sores  ;'  and 
if  you  are  impenitent,  this  is  just  your  condition." 
I  entreated  him  to  think  of  his  moral  maladies  in 
the  sight  of  God,  and  rest  not  till  they  were  heal- 
ed by  the  balm  of  Gilead.  Before  we  parted,  he 
appeared  solemn,  and  gave  his  promise  that  he 
would  attend  to  the  subject  of  religion  immediately. 

To-day  I  have  had  a  second  interview  with  him, 
and  find  him  hopefully  converted  to  God.  He  said 
the  conviction  that  his  heart  was  really  in  a  worse 
condition  than  his  face,  troubled  him  exceedingly, 
and  he  went,  according  to  his  promise,  to  a  pro- 
tracted meeting  near  by,  and  there,  as  he  thinks, 
found  the  Savior. 


WALKS   OF   USEFULNESS.  265 

Faithfulness  rewarded. — 21th.  Passing  to-day 
from  Greenwich  lane  onward,  I  was  accosted  fa- 
miliarly by  a  gentleman  standing  at  his  door,  call- 
ing my  name,  and  saying,  "  You  used  to  be  a  tract 
visiter  in  this  district,  but  I  have  not  seen  you  this 
seven  years."  Learning  who  he  was,  I  observed 
that  he  looked  seven  years  younger  than  when  I 
saw  him  last.  "  Yes,"  said  he,  "  I  now  keep  a 
temperance  grocery,  have  seen  the  sin  and, folly 
of  vending  distilled  liquors,  and,  I  trust,  found  re- 
pentance and  forgiveness."  He  then  reminded 
me  of  my  "  preaching  temperance,"  as  he  called 
it,  in  his  store,  seven  years  ago,  and  being  much 
insulted  by  one  of  his  rum-drinking  customers. 
He  repeated  a  conversation  long  since  forgotten 
by  me,  and  said  the  last,  text  to  which  I  referred 
him  was  this,  "  Wo  unto  him  that  giveth  his 
neighbor  drink,  that  puttest  thy  bottle  to  him,  and 
makest  him  drunken."  This,  and  the  abusive  lan- 
guage that  had  been  uttered  in  his  store,  because 
of  faithful  rebuke,  stung  him  to  the  heart.  He  said 
he  had  a  mother  whom  he  loved  and  respected, 
and  felt  that  it  would  be  very  painful  to  him  to  have 
her  treated  as  I  had  been  when  discharging  a  man- 
ifest duty.  He  saw  in  this  case  the  debasing  in- 
fluence of  ardent  spirits,  and  at  length  resolved  to 
give  up  their  use,  and  banish  them  altogether  from 
his  store.  He  had  since  become  a  converted  man, 
and  a  laborer  in  the  vineyard  of  the  Lord. 
23 


266 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


CHAPTER  XIII. 

"Sister's  kind  word." — Faith  exemplified. — Visit  at  the  hos- 
pital.— The  living  lost. — Further  allusion  to  the  Sunday 
scholar. — The  mother  of  little  James. — Effects  of  tight 
lacing. — An  interesting  case. — The  state-prison  convict. — 
The  poor  blind  girl. — A  scene  in  prison. — Blasted  hopes. — 
A  sad  picture  reversed. — Pleasing  result  of  missionary  la- 
bor on  Long  Island. — The  infidel  converted. — The  drunk- 
ard's death-bed. — Temperance  jubilee. 

"  Sister^ s  kind  word.'''' — March  \st.  Some  three 
weeks  since,  while  visiting  from  house  to  house, 
I  met  with  a  lady  in  whose  appearance  I  was  much 
interested.  After  considerable  personal  conversa- 
tion, I  gave  her  the  Advocate  and  several  tracts, 
among  which  was  "  A  J^ister's  Kind  Word  to  the 
Sailor,"  recently  published  by  our  society.  The 
title  of  this  tract  seemed  to  fasten  her  attention 
upon  it,  and  she  remarked  that  she  had  an  only 
brother  out  at  sea,  and  she  would  reserve  it  for 
him  on  his  return.  The  interview  led  me  to  feel 
deeply  for  her  soul.  I  learned  that  though  the 
family  were  in  good  circumstances,  they  were 
destitute  of  the  Bible,  and  owing  to  the  prohibition 
of  her  husband,  the  lady  was  never  allowed  to  at- 
tend a  place  of  worship. 

When  I  called  again,  I  found  her  in  deep  dis- 
tress.   Her  sins  were  set  in  order  before  her,  and 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


267 


\he  veil  that  hides  ctorniiy  lia;l  been  so  far  remo- 
ved, that  she  was  led  to  {'ear  and  tremble  in  view 
?f  the  coming  wrath. 

To-day  I  Ibimd  hor  rejoicing  in  the  Lord,  "  with 
|oy  unspeakable."  She  said  that  yesterday  her 
anguish  of  mind  was  almost  insupportable.  She 
entreated  her  husband  to  permit  her  to  go  to  the 
house  of  God.  He  not  only  refused,  but  locked 
up  her  clothing,  and  secured  the  doors,  so  that  she 
was  compelled  to  abide  at  home  through  the  Sab- 
bath. "  Oh,"  said  she,  "  I  thought  if  the  poorest, 
meanest  being  that  lives,  who  knows  the  way  to 
Christ,  would  only  come  in  and  pray  for  me,  how 
grateful  I  would  feel." 

In  this  state  of  mind,  she  retired  at  evening  to 
an  attic,  and  there,  while  confessing  her  sins,  and 
pleading  for  mercy,  had  a  vision  of  the  love  of  Je- 
sus, as  it  beamed  from  the  cross,  and  the  mercy- 
seat,  that  caused  her  to  cry  aloud  in  thanksgiving 
and  praise.  She  quite  forgot  that  she  was  within 
hearing  of  any-  human  ear  ;  but  her  husband  came 
to  her,  much  agitated,  and  taking  her  in  his  arms, 
exclaimed,  "  My  dear,  are  you  crazy  ?"  He  has- 
tened her  to  her  room,  inquiring  further,  "  Do  you 
know  me  ?  Do  you  know  your  child  ?"  As  soon 
as  the  fulness  of  her  emotion  permitted,  she  re- 
plied, "  I  know  the  Lord,  and  I  am  his,  and  I  must 
praise  him."  He  seemed  surprised  and  much 
softened  at  this  unaccountable  change,  as  he  evi- 


268 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


dently  considered  it.  Her  appearance  and  conver- 
sation affected  me,  and  I  was  constrained  to  join 
her  in  magnilying  the  name  of  our  precious  Savior. 
When  I  inquired  what  she  considered  the  means 
of  awakening  her  to  a  sense  of  her  sins,  she  re 
plied,  "  The  tract  '  A  Sister's  Kind  Word  to  the 
Sailor.'  " 

Faith  exemplif  ed. — 2^th.  Called  this  morning 
on  a  Christian  sister,  who,  when  in  health,  is  ac- 
customed to  walks  of  usefulness.  Finding  her 
ready  to  accompany  me  for  a  few  hours,  our  steps 
were  first  directed  to  the  dwelling  of  one  of  the 
Lord's  sick  poor.  On  arriving  at  the  door,  hearing 
a  feeble  but  very  earnest  voice,  and  thinking  it 
might  be  the  voice  of  prayer,  we  were  deterred  a 
moment  from  entering.  Finding  our  mistake  we 
proceeded,  and  were  most  cordially  welcomed. 
The  sick  and  dying  man,  it  seemed,  was  repeating 
the  promises  of  God  to  his  weeping  wife.  The 
wife,  too,  was  a  Christian,  but  her  peculiar  circum 
stances  just  then  overcame  her  foxtitude,  and  she 
was  finding  relief  in  tears.'  The  sick  husband,  as 
he  sat  bolstered  in  his  bed  (he  was  too  far  gone 
with  consumption  to  recline  long  in  any  other  po 
sition),  inquired  why  she  wept,  and  learned  that 
she  had  put  the  last  stick  of  wood  upon  the  fire, 
and  prepared  the  last  food  the  house  afforded  for 
her  poor  children,  and  she  had  not  a  farthing  to 
purchase  more,  or  provide  for  the  wants  of  sick- 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


269 


ness.  In  reply,  he  was  repeating  to  her  the  pre- 
cious promises,  and  drawing  such  comfort  from 
them  as  made  his  own  face  beam  with  a  heavenly 
sweetness  that  affected  us  to  tears. 

"  O  !"  said  he,  "  'tis  true — I  feel  it  so — '  eye 
.lath  not  seen,  nor  ear  heard,  neither  have  entered 
tuto  the  heart  of  man  to  conceive,  the  things  which 
God  hath  prepared  for  them  that  love  him.'  All 
the  promises  are  yea  and  amen  in  Christ  Jesus,  and 
in  sickness  or  health,  living  or  dying,  they  are  for 
me,  for  you,  for  all  who  will  believe." 

"  Why,"  exclaimed  the  dear  sister  who  was 
with  me,  "  this  is  just  what  mij  soul  needs.  I  have 
been  living  more  or  less  in  '  doubting  castle,'  and 
if  I  could  grasp  one  promise,  and  cling  to  it  with 
a  trembling  hold,  I  have  thought  myself  well  off — 
but  I  see  that  faith  brings  all  this  blessedness,  and 
if  this  sick  brother  may  have  it  in  such  circum- 
stances as  these,  why  may  not  I  ?" 

She  was  indeed  greatly  blessed  by  this  inter- 
view ;  and,  after  a  season  of  prayer  and  praise  at 
the  bedside  of  the  sick  man,  we  felt  unitedly,  that 
our  blessed  Jesus  had  truly 

 "  met,  and  fed,  and  blessed, 

And  filled  the  enlarged  desire." 

On  leaving  them,  my  friend  put  a  five  dollar  bill 
into  the  hands  of  the  wife,  and  realized,  as  she 
said,  more  than  ever  before,  that  "  it  is  more  bless- 
ed to  give  than  receive.'^    Surely  if  every  Chris- 
23* 


270 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


tian  could  but  witness  the  power  of  grace  here  dis- 
played, the  impression  would  be  lasting.  The  ap- 
peal made  to  the  hearts  of  the  unbelieving  could 
not  be  dismissed,  without  the  personal  inquiry  and 
response — "  Can  I  too  have  this  same  precious 
faith,  and  rejoice  in  the  Lord,  '  with  joy  unspeak- 
able,' through  all  my  heavenward  pilgrimage  ?  If 
so,  how  much  I  want  it." 
The  living  lost. — 

"  Stich  is  tho  fate  of  artless  maid, 
Sweet  flowret  of  the  rural  shade, 
By  love's  simjJicity  betrayed, 

And  guileless  trust, 
Till  she,  like  thee,  all  soiled  is  laid 

Low  i'  the  dust," — Burns. 

Some  three  years  since,  in  my  accustomed 
walks,  I  gave  the  Advocate  to  a  lady  who  kept  a 

fancy  store  in  street.    She  at  first  refused  it, 

but  at  the  earnest  solicitation  of  a  friend,  consented 
to  read  it,  and  give  me  her  views  of  its  merits 
when  I  should  call  again.  She  had  at  this  time 
a  young  woman  in  her  employ  who  had  served 
her  faithfully  in  the  store  for  years,  and  ever  mer- 
ited implicit  confidence.  Finding  it  necessary  to 
engage  another  assistant,  she  inserted  an  adver- 
tisement in  a  daily  paper,  and  selected  from  vari- 
ous applicants  such  a  one  as  she  supposed  would 
meet  her  wishes.  But  a  little  time  elapsed,  ere 
the  faithful  girl  alluded  to  above,  was  ensnared  by 
the  latter,  and  induced  to  abscond  on  false  preten- 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


271 


ces.  Her  distressed  mother  heard  from  her  indi- 
rectly, and  soon  had  reason  to  conclude  that  her 
character  was  ruined.  She  made  many  fruitless 
efforts  to  find  her,  and  at  length,  after  nearly  three 
years'  absence,  she  ascertained  the  place  of  her 
abode.  Feeling  her  need  of  counsel  and  aid,  she 
called  on  me,  and  desired  my  assistance  in  obtain- 
ing her  child.  I  could  not  then  comply  with  the 
request,  but  directed  her  what  course  to  pursue. 
Soon  after,  she  called  again,  and  related  the  cir- 
cumstances of  her  interview  with  her  poor  daughter. 
She  found  her  sick  and  nigh  unto  death,  and  in  a 
state  of  mind  full  of  anguish.  The  harpy  who 
had  her  in  custody  was  about  leaving  for  Charles- 
ton, for  the  purpose  of  replenishing  her  stock  of 
victims,  and  was  about  to  send  this  poor  creature 
off  to  the  Belle vue  hospital  to  die,  but  at  the  re- 
quest of  the  agonized  mother,  did  not  object  to  her 
taking  her  home.  She  was  also  preparing  a  son 
and  niece  living  with  her  for  a  distant  boarding- 
school.  The  mother  decided  to  remove  her  at 
once,  and  desired  me  to  go  with  her  to  pray  with 
the  poor  child  before  she  started,  saying  she  was 
so  ill,  she  feared  she  might  die  by  the  way. 

Some  fifteen  or  more  who  had  sold  themselves 
to  do  evil,  were  in  the  same  house,  and  gathered 
with  us  in  the  room  with  the  poor  sufferer,  while 
we  knelt  to  pray.  Some  were  much  affected,  and 
others  appeared  hardened.    I  found  it  a  good  op- 


272 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


portunity  to  appeal  to  the  last  remaining  spark  of 
feeling,  and  urge  them,  in  view  of  the  sad  example 
before  them,  to  retrace  their  steps,  and  flee  from 
the  coming  wrath.  One,  whose  feelings  were 
much  moved,  exclaimed,  "  How  can  I  ever  go  into 
virtuous  society  from  a  place  like  this  1"  Another 
replied,  with  seeming  satisfaction,  "  0,  we  see 
plenty  of  gentlemen  who  come  here  from  virtuous 
society,  and  we  can  hear  from  them  all  we  wish 
to  know." 

The  poor  girl  was  taken  upon  a  litter  and  con- 
veyed with  much  care  to  the  house  of  her  mother. 
The  language  of  Job,  "  I  have  said  to  corruption, 
thou  art  my  father,"  was  applicable  to  her,  even 
before  going  into  the  grave.  Seldom  have  we 
seen  the  ravages  of  one  of  the  most  horrible  dis- 
eases in  a  form  so  frightful  and  appalling.  And 
she  died  as  she  lived — an  object  of  loathing,  physi- 
cally and  morally — and  so  she  commenced  her 
eternity.  Three  years  and  a  half  since,  she  was 
innocent,  and  nature  had  bestowed  upon  her  love- 
liness of  form  and  feature.  She  also  possessed 
wealth  and  friends,  was  well-educated,  and  had  a 
fair  prospect  of  long  life  and  usefulness.  Now, 
behold  the  contrast.  One  evil  companion,  and 
want  of  early  instruction,  wrought  all  this  ruin. 
"  Oh,"  said  she,  when  just  about  to  die,  "  0  !  that 
1  had  been  taught  moral  reform  principles  when 
I  was  a  child.  0  !  that  you  had  come  to  me  three 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


273 


years  ago,  as  you  have  now."  But  it  was  too 
late.  Her  lamentations,  though  bitter  were  un- 
availing. And  this  is  but  one  of  hundreds  of 
similar  instances.  Mothers,  we  turn  to  you  and 
ask,  are  the  victims  of  Moloch  any  more  to  be 
pitied  ?  If  you  could  see  what  we  see,  and  feel 
what  we  feel,  you  would  surely  answer  "  No,"  and 
you  would  not  only  speak,  but  act. 
%  Farther  allusion  to  the  Sunday  scholar. — 20th. 
Had  a  pleasant  interview  to-day  witli  a  gentleman 
who  has  adopted  the  little  Sabbath  school  boy, 
whose  filial  piety  and  uncommon  promise  were 
mentioned  in  a  report  published  in  the  Advocate 
of  Feb.  1.  This  gentleman  saw  that  account,  and 
the  Lord  made  it  the  means  of  enlisting  an  inter- 
est in  his  heart  in  behalf  of  the  mother  and  her 
lovely  boy.  He  sought  her  residence  through  the 
visiter,  administered  of  his  abundance  to  her 
wants,  imparted  Christian  counsel  and  sympathy, 
and  when  she  was  about  taking  leave  of  her 
earthly  cares,  solicited  the  gift  of  this  dear  boy, 
whom  she  was  about  to  leave  a  lonely  orphan. 
The  request  was  readily  granted,  and  the  prayer 
that  the  child  had  been  offering  for  weeks  (that 
if  his  mother  should  die,  he  might  not  go  to  the 
alms-house),  was  also  kindly  answered. 

The  mother  previous  to  her  death,  seemed  to 
exercise  faith  in  that  precious  Savior  whom  her 
little  James  so  much  loved,  and  her  end  was  peace. 


274  WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 

The  gentleman  called  to-day  with  the  dear  boy,  to 
take  leave  of  me  ;  said  he  intended  to  educate  the 
child  and  bring  him  up  as  his  own  ;  was  going  in 
the  country  to  reside,  and  he  wished  once  more 
to  express  his  thanks,  and  bid  me  farewell.  The 
dear  boy  also  expressed  his  gratitude  for  my  care 
of  him,  saying  he  should  always  remember  me, 
and  the  "  Moral  Reform,"  too. 

Effects  of  tight  lacing. — 25^//.  In  passing  through^ 
my  tract  district  to-day,  persuaded  fifteen  children 
to  attend  the  Sunday  school,  and  was  much  abused 
in  one  instance  by  a  poor  infidel.  Found  a  young 
lady  in  consumption,  who  said  she  was  fully 
aware  that  her  malady  was  brought  on  by  tight 
lacing.  She  added,  "  Had  I  seen  the  x\dvocate 
six  years  ago,  and  Dr.  Alcott's  communications, 
my  life  might  have  been  saved."  Surely  this 
case  should  convey  a  note  of  warning  to  the 
thoughtless. 

An  interesting  case. — 

"  One  there  is  above  all  others, 

Well  deserves  the  name  of  friend, 
His  is  love  beyond  a  brother's, 
Costly,  free,  and  knows  no  end.'' 

2\st.  In  crossing  the  ferry  from  Brooklyn  to 
New  York  this  afternoon,  I  presented  the  tract, 
"  Do  you  want  a  friend  ?"  to  a  lady  whose  dress 
indicated  that  she  had  been  recently  bereaved, 
saying  to  her  at  the  same  time,  in  a  low  voice, 
"  The  blessed  Jesus  is  the  friend  here  alluded  to." 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


275 


She  gazed  at  me  with  a  deeply  pensive  expres- 
Bion,  and  made  no  reply.  Passing  off  the  boat, 
she  took  my  hand  and  said,  "  May  I  have  an 
opportunity  of  conversing  with  you?"  As  we 
walked  together,  she  relieved  her  burdened  heart 
by  giving  a  brief  detail  of  her  bereavements  and 
trials,  and  evinced  most  clearly  that  the  sorrow  of 
the  world,  which  worketh  death,  prevailed  over 
every  better  feeling.  She  was  well  educated,  of 
pleasing  address,  and  had  been  accustomed  only 
to  refinement  and  affluence.  A  change  had  come. 
Her  idolized  husband  was  suddenly  removed,  and, 
dying  insolvent,  had  left  her  with  her  children, 
penniless. 

She  had  been  for  some  days  seeking  a  situation 
as  governess — but  had  been  disappointed  once  and 
again.  She  was  in  debt  for  rent,  with  nothing  to 
pay,  and  her  furniture  was  about  to  be  sold,  and 
herself  and  little  ones  turned,  homeless,  upon  the 
cold  charities  of  the  world,  without  a  friend  to 
console  or  assist  them.  She  confessed  with  tears, 
that  she  had  been  strongly  tempted,  and  more  than 
half  persuaded  to  terminate  by  self-destruction  an 
existence  that  had  become  a  burden.  Nothing 
but  regard  for  her  children  had  deterred  her  from 
so  rash  a  deed.  She  said  the  reading  of  the  tract, 
and  the  unexpected  remark  I  had  made  to  her, 
had  awakened  a  different  train  of  thought,  and  a 
consciousness  of  gTiilt  and  danger  unfelt  before. 


276 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


Such  advice  was  given  as  the  case  required,  and 
further  aid  promised  on  the  morrow. 

'23d.  By  much  effort,  and  the  special  goodness 
of  the  Lord,  I  have  been  enabled  to  obtain  a  situa- 
tion for  Mrs.  ,  as  governess  in  a  pleasant 

Christian  family.  She  expressed  much  gratitude, 
despair  was  driven  from  her  bosom,  and  the  reso- 
lution formed  to  seek  an  interest  in  the  friend  of 
sinners.  As  some  apology  for  the  strange  purpose 
above  named,  she  quoted  the  case  of  Hagar, 
saying  "  she  thought  her  situation  equally  deplor- 
able— instead  of  one,  she  had  two  dear  children 
that  were  famishing,  and  it  was  more  than  a 
mothers  heart  could  bear."  I  felt  an  unusual  in- 
terest in  this  unhappy  woman,  and  can  not  but 
hope  she  may  be  a  brand  plucked  from  the  burning. 

The  state-prison  convict. — 25th.  Was  enabled 
to  obtain  a  place  this  morning  lor  a  poor  girl  re- 
cently released  from  the  state-prison.  She  had 
been  confined  there  two  years  for  stealing,  but 
professed  penitence  ;  and  as  she  was  homeless 
and  friendless,  it  seemed  but  right  to  offer  Chris- 
tian kindness,  and  try  to  guard  her,  if  possible, 
from  again  offending  against  the  laws  for  want  of 
employment.  She  had  walked  the  streets  of  our 
city,  seeking  a  home,  till  her  feet  were  swollen 
and  blistered.  She  says  she  had  inquired  only 
for  Christian  people,  and  some  had  told  her  where 
to  find  them,  and  others,  that  there  were  "  no 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


277 


Christians  in  New  York."  Providentially  she 
was  directed  to  our  office  of  direction,  and  retained 
there  till  this  morning.  We  were  surprised  to 
learn  that  she  was  the  same  individual  who  had  a 
few  weeks  since,  been  struck  dumb  for  blasphemy. 
She  entered  the  prison  a  perfect  heathen,  and 
versed  in  all  manner  of  iniquity.  No  means  were 
left  untried  to  prevent  her  from  taking  the  name 
of  God  in  vain,  but  they  proved  ineffectual,  till 
some  few  weeks  since,  after  uttering  a  most  hor- 
rid oath,  saying  that  even  the  Almighty  should  not 
hinder  her  from  using  such  language,  she  was 
suddenly  struck  dumb,  and  continued  entirely  si- 
lent four  weeks.  Various  expedients  were  resort- 
ed to,  such  as  electricity  and  other  stimulants,  in 
order  to  ascertain  whether  any  deception  existed  ; 
but  the  circumstances  were  such  as  to  convince 
the  chaplain  and  matron,  and  others  who  saw  her 
most,  that  she  was  thus  affected  by  a  visitation 
from  God. 

When  suffered  to  speak  again,  she  was  much 
overcome,  and  seemed  to  think  she  should  never 
utter  another  oath.  [The  above  statements  are 
received  from  sources  that  may  be  relied  on.] 

The  poor  blind  girl. — Jutte  SO(h.  Visiting  in 
my  tract  district  to-day,  I  met  with  a  poor  blind 
girl.  She  could  but  just  perceive  that  I  had  a  bi- 
ble in  my  hand,  and  as  1  talked  of  the  Savior  there 
revealed,  and  thn  necessity  of  fleeing  to  him  for 
24 


278 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


security  from  the  wrath  to  come,  she  begged  1 
would  read  to  her,  for  how  could  she  obtain  reli- 
gion, she  said,  and  know  so  little  of  the  bible. 
She  invited  me  to  call  at  her  home,  and  gave  me 
her  name  and  number. 

July  2d.  Called  on  the  blind  girl,  and  found  her 
with  an  aged  mother,  whose  daily  labor  was  the 
only  means  of  support  for  herself  and  two  misera- 
ble brothers,  both  young  and  healthy,  but  so  de- 
graded, they  were  but  one  remove  from  vagrancy. 
The  poor  girl  seemed  to  possess  a  degree  of  intel- 
ligence one  would  scarce  expect  to  find  amid  so 
much  degradation,  and  expressed  a  great  desire  to 
have  the  bible  read  to  her  ;  I  read,  and  obtained 
permission  of  the  mother  to  pray  with  her.  Mean- 
while the  wretched  brothers  came  in,  and  such  an 
exhibition  of  depraved  human  nature  I  have  sel- 
dom seen.  When  they  left,  I  asked  the  mothei 
why  they  were  not  apprenticed,  and  made  in  some 
way  useful  to  her.  "  Oh !"  said  the  unhappy 
mother,  "  they  are  entirely  beyond  my  control. 
They  sleep  nearly  the  whole  day,  and  are  out  all 
night,  carousing  and  indulging  in  every  vicious 
practice,  and  I  never  expect  to  be  delivered  from 
their  impudence,  and  the  burden  of  supporting 
them,  until  they  commit  some  act  which  will 
throw  them  into  the  Tombs." 

Passing  from  the  door,  a  woman  who  had  over- 
heard my  conversation  below,  desired  me  to  go  up 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


279 


stairs  and  converse  with  her  husband,  who  was 
confined  to  his  bed  with  a  sprained  limb.  I  went 
up,  not  knowing  what  the  Lord  had  for  me  to  do, 
but  found  from  the  countenance  of  the  man  that  he 
was  intemperate,  and  was  led  to  inquire  if  he  had 
ever  attended  any  of  the  meetings  of  the  reformed 
inebriates.  He  said  he  had  attended  one,  but  did 
not  think  it  would  last  long.  I  told  him  that  I 
differed  from  him  in  opinion,  I  believed  the  refor- 
mation was  of  the  Lord,  and  that  consequently  it 
would  last  until  a  great  work  was  accomplished. 
I  asked  him  if  he  had  ever  signed  the  pledge  ? 
He  answered  no,  for  he  did  not  think  he  could 
keep  it  if  he  did,  but  if  I  thought  it  was  of  the 
Lord  he  didn't  know  but  there  was  some  hope.  I 
told  him  I  had  a  pledge  with  me,  and  would  like 
to  have  him  sign  it ;  he  observed,  that  since  his 
late  misfortune  he  had  thought  more  of  doing  it, 
for  it  was  in  a  drunken  frolic  that  he  had  fallen 
and  received  the  injury  from  which  he  was  now 
suffering.  He  took  the  pledge,  and  as  he  placed 
his  hand  in  the  attitude  of  writing,  with  great  ap- 
parent solemnity,  uttered  a  whispered  prayer, 
"  Lord,  help  me  to  keep  it."  My  heart  was  full, 
for  I  had  never  before  seen  an  habitual  drunkard 
pray  as  he  put  his  hand  to  the  pledge,  and  I  was 
more  than  ever  convinced  that  the  hand  of  the 
Lord  was  in  all  this. 

Blasted  hopes. — 9M.  The  situation  of  a  friend- 


280 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


less  orphan,  who  had  become  the  victim  of  mis- 
placed affection,  was  communicated  to  me  by  a 
Christian  sister,  and  at  her  request,  I  called  on  the 
unhappy  girl,  hoping,  if  possible,  to  save  her  from 
further  degradation.  She  appeared  truly  penitent, 
and  her  artless  tale  was  calculated  to  elicit  sympa- 
thy. She  had  lived,  from  her  childhood,  in  a 
family  to  whom  she  was  committed  by  her  dying 
mother,  and  had  been  treated  as  a  child  until  re- 
cently. A  son  of  the  lady  with  whom  she  lived, 
professed  an  honorable  attachment,  and  proposed 
marriage.  Her  regard  for  him  was  such,  that  she 
thought  him  incapable  of  deceiving  her,  and  there- 
fore continued  to  trust  his  word  till  convinced  that 
her  doom  was  sealed.  The  mother  of  the  young 
man  at  length  expelled  her  from  her  house,  in 
feeble  health,  with  a  helpless  infant,  not  even 
knowing  where  she  would  seek  lodgings  for  the  night. 

A  Christian  neighbor,  who  knew  that  her  con- 
duct (with  this  exception),  had  ever  been  correct, 
gave  her  a  temporary  shelter.  After  conversing 
with  her,  I  w^as  convinced  that  it  would  be  a  deed 
of  common  charity  to  provide  her  a  home  among 
Christians,  and  try  to  lead  her  to  the  Savior.  By 
some  effort,  such  a  place  was  provided.  Previous 
to  her  going  to  it,  the  proper  steps  were  taken  to 
compel  the  young  man  to  provide  for  the  support 
of  the  infant — and  to  expose  his  name,  if  neces- 
sary, should  other  efforts  prove  ineffectual. 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


281 


This  poor  girl  had  not  been  taught  right  princi- 
ples from  her  early  youth — and  like  too  many 
others,  fell  an  easy  prey  to  the  destroyer.  It  was 
painful  to  behold  her  youth  and  loveliness,  and 
look  at  her  blasted  hopes. 

10^^.  Found  a  young  miss  in  my  tract  district, 
who  consented,  for  a  small  compensation,  to  lead 
the  poor  blind  girl  to  church  every  Sabbath.  She 
was  truly  grateful,  as  she  could  go  nowhere  alone, 
and  was  deeply  anxious  to  hear  the  word  of  God. 
While  conversing  with  her  about  her  lost  state, 
'she  manifested  intense  interest,  and  said  to  me, 
while  the  tears  were  streaming  from  her  sightless 
eyes,  "  You  have  told  me — 

'  All  the  fitness  He  requireth, 
Is  to  feel  your  need  of  him,' 

and  I  feel  this?  I  am  sure." 

A  sad  picture  reversed. — 21th.  Called  at  a  house 
this  morning,  where  the  voice  of  joy  and  gladness 
greeted  my  ears.  As  I  sat  down  and  looked  about 
the  comfortable  apartment,  my  full  heart  could 
only  say,  "  What  hath  God  wrought !"  One  year 
ago  last  winter,  I  called  on  this  family,  and  found 
the  woman  sick,  with  few  or  no  comforts,  not  suf- 
ficient covering  upon  her  back  to  shield  her  from 
the  cold,  and  their  whole  appearance  .said  plainly, 
"  This  is  the  habitation  of  him  who  tarries  long 
24* 


282 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


at  the  wine."  The  wretched  father  came  in,  and 
the  children  in  a  fright  secreted  themselves  under 
the  bed. 

Enough  of  this  sad  picture.  To-day,  yes,  to-d<iy, 
it  is  all  reversed.  A  little  girl  came  smiling 
toward  me,  saying,  "  I  have  got  a  new  frock  and 
bonnet,  and  go  to  church  and  sabbath-school." 
Little  John  added,  "  And  I  have  got  a  new  pair 
of  shoes,  and  father  says  (as  he  brushed  off  the 
dust)  I  must  not  wear  them  every  day,  but  save 
them  for  the  Sabbath — [a  good  lesson  this,  for 
many  a  poor  family,  whose  pride  would  compel 
the  child  to  stay  from  the  house  of  God,  rather 
than  be  seen  through  the  week  without  shoes], — 
and  father  says,  if  we  be  good,  when  we  die,  we 
shall  go  to  heaven." 

But  what  shall  I  say  of  the  once  miserable 
mother  ?  Her  heart  was  overflowing  with  grati- 
tude, and  her  tongue  filled  with  praise.  "  The 
Lord,"  she  exclaimed,  "  has  turned  my  captivity, 
and  I  am  as  one  that  has  awakened  from  a  long 
sleep.  The  voice  of  profanity  is  no  more  heard 
in  my  dwelling,  and  I  need  not  now  watch  con- 
tinually, as  I  have  had  to  do,  lest  my  children 
should  profanely  lisp  the  name  of  God  in  their 
common  prattle.  I  have  now  only  to  take  care  of 
my  house  and  children,  instead  of  sewing  early 
and  late  to  keep  them  from  beggary."  This  is  the 
blessed  effect  of  a  temperance  pledge. 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


283 


Pleasing  result  of  missionary  labor  on  Long  Isl- 
and.— August  28th.  In  the  year  1839,  having  oc- 
casion to  leave  the  city  during  August,  on  account 
of  health,  I  visited  at  Long  Island,  and  spent  a 
portion  of  my  time  in  missionary  labor  among  the 
destitute.  The  field  was  rather  unpromising,  but 
from  "  the  man  of  my  counsel"  I  was  told,  "  Cast 
thy  bread  upon  the  waters,  and  thou  shalt  fmd  it 
after  many  days ;"  and  this  was  a  sufficient  guide 
to  make  the  path  of  duty  plain.  At  the  house  of  a 
friend  on  whom  I  called,  I  was  requested  by  the 
cook,  a  poor  colored  woman,  to  go  with  her  to 

H  ,  an  adjoining  neighborhood,  and  converse 

with  her  sick  daughter,  who  was  very  low  with 
consumption  and  unprepared  for  death.  I  went, 
as  requested,  had  a  solemn  interview,  and,  when 
leaving,  the  wish  was  expressed  by  some  who  had 
come  in,  that  I  would  spend  the  next  Sabbath  in 
the  place,  and  read  the  Scriptures,  and  converse 
and  pray  with  them.  Nearly  all  in  the  settlement 
were  colored  people,  extremely  ignorant  and  im- 
moral, and  destitute  of  any  religious  instruction. 
In  view  of  the  circumstances,  I  engaged  to  com- 
ply with  their  wishes,  and  have  seldom  spent  a 
Sabbath  fraught  with  deeper  interest.  I  was 
blessed  with  great  freedom  in  explaining  the  com- 
mands and  promises  of  the  blessed  gospel,  and 
especially  the  injunctions  concerning  purity  of 
heart  and  life.    The  poor  people  listened  with 


284 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


fixed  attention.  On  this  point  they  were  deeply 
guilty,  for  virtue  was  scarcely  known  among  them. 
So  great  was  their  ignorance  and  degradation, 
that  they  were  unconscious  of  the  extent  of  their 
sin.  I  was  afterward  informed  that  my  labors 
among  a  class  that  others  had  considered  so  hope- 
less, were  ridiculed  by  some  in  the  vicinity ;  but 
this  did  not  begin  to  shake  my  confidence  in  God, 
nor  my  determination  to  do  still  more  for  them. 
On  returning  to  the  city,  a  colored  minister,  to 
whom  I  applied,  engaged  to  go  and  preach  to 
them,  in  case  his  expenses  could  be  paid.  This 
was  done,  and  subsequently  further  aid  provided. 
The  present  month,  after  a  lapse  of  three  years,  I 
have  been  permitted  to  visit  them  again  ;  and  have 
learned,  with  surprise  and  gratitude,  that  the  re- 
sult of  the  first  visit,  connected  with  the  other 
efforts  named,  had  been  the  means  of  the  hopeful 
conversion  of  between  thirty  and  forty  precious 
souls.  The  happy  change  in  the  moral  character 
of  the  people  is  remarked  in  all  the  region  round 
about,  and  the  order,  industry,  and  quiet,  observed 
among  them,  is  as  much  a  proverb  as  their  indo- 
lence, discord,  and  every  evil  work,  have  been 
formerly.  Truly,  "  God  is  faithful,"  and  unspeak- 
ably good :  to  his  name  alone  be  all  the  praise. 

The  infidel  converted. — While  on  the  island, 
learning  that  a  camp-meeting  had  commenced 
near  by,  and  being  desirous  of  having  my  spiritual 

♦ 


WALKS  OP  USEFULNESS. 


285 


strength  renewed,  I  accompanied  a  friend  to  the 
place.  After  the  sermon,  as  I  was  leaving  the 
ground,  a  lady,  whom  I  had  not  seen  for  many 
months,  accosted  me  familiarly,  and  desired  me  to 
go  to  her  tent,  'I'he  case  of  this  lady  and  her 
husband  was  referred  to  in  the  Advocate  of  Nov. 
1 5,  1 839,  and  there  seemed  at  that  time  a  strong 
probability  that  the  family  would  be  separated. 
Grace  had  wrought  salvation,  and  changed  that 
infidel  husband  to  an  humble  disciple  of  the  meek 
and  lowly  Jesus.  On  entering  the  tent,  she  in- 
troduced me  to  him.  He  recognised  my  voice,  and 
suddenly  liis  countenance  became  deadly  pale. 
The  scene  alluded  to  in  the  Advocate  probably 
rushed  at  once  upon  his  recollection  ;  however,  he 
soon  became  composed,  and  when  a  favorable 
opportimity  offered,  related  with  much  frankness 
and  apparent  humility  the  circumstances  of  his 
conversion,  and  the  means  that  had  effected  it. 
From  the  statement,  it  appeared  that  the  fear  of 
having  his  name  exposed  in  the  Advocate  induced 
him  to  leave  the  city ;  and  he  was  thus  removed 
from  the  influence  of  his  porter-house  companions, 
and,  through  the  infinite  mercy  of  God,  was  placed 
where  the  saving  power  of  the  gospel  could  reach 
his  heart.  His  expression  concerning  the  paper 
was,  "  Its  very  name  was  as  a  voice  of  vengeance 
to  my  soul."  Another  trophy  this,  for  which  we 
should  thank  God  and  take  courage. 


286 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


Temperance  jubilee. — 1 3M.  Truly  this  has  been 
a  day  of  jubilee.  The  temperance  procession  in 
our  city,  extending  over  one  mile  in  length,  pre- 
sented a  spectacle  that  has  filled  many  eyes  with 
joyful  tears,  and  many  hearts  with  gladness,  and, 
we  trust,  sincere  gratitude  to  the  great  Author  of 
all  good.  Passing  from  house  to  house,  the  song 
of  jubilee  from  this  great  and  joyful  multitude 
arrested  my  attention,  and  I  stopped  awhile  to  gaze 
upon  the  scene.  It  was  such  a  spectacle  as  New 
York  had  never  witnessed,  and  was  well  calcu- 
lated to  lead  the  mind  of  the  Christian  to  that 
greater  day,  when  the  millions  of  earth's  popula- 
tion shall  be  emancipated  from  the  bondage  of  sin, 
and  unite  in  the  glad  song  of  "  Amen,  alleluia,  for 
the  Lord  God  omnipotent  reigneth." 

Perhaps  it  may  be  recollected,  that  in  a  report 
given  some  months  since,  I  stated,  that  in  the 
course  of  my  visits  for  two  winters  past,  I  had 
followed  to  their  homes  between  one  and  two  hun- 
dred children,  who  had  been  sent  into  the  streets 
to  beg  by  their  intemperate  parents  ;  and  counting 
those  at  home,  the  number  amounted  to  three  hun- 
dred. My  object  in  doing  this  was  to  ascertain 
their  true  condition,  and  what  could  be  done  for 
them. 

I  had  an  interview  with  one  of  these  families 
this  morning,  that  has  seemed  like  gathering  up 
"  bread  cast  upon  the  waters."  During  the  severe 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


287 


weather  of  the  last  winter,  T  met,  while  visiting,  a 
little  beggar  girl,  some  ten  or  twelve  years  old, 
with  filthy,  tattered  garments,  no  stockings,  and  a 
haggard  and  sorrowful  countenance,  soliciting 
charity.  By  providing  her  a  loaf  of  bread,  I  per- 
suaded her  to  go  and  show  me  where  she  lived. 
On  arriving  at  the  place,  I  found  that  the  appear- 
ance of  the  child  corresponded  with  that  of  the 
whole  family — and  while  I  was  listening  to  the 
recital  of  their  wants,  a  little  boy  entered  with  a 
quart  of  beer.  My  expostulations  appeared  to  make 
no  impression — the  father  was  a  confirmed  inebri- 
ate, and  the  mother  would  not  sign  the  pledge,  be- 
cause she  thought  "  a  little  beer  did  her  good."  A 
few  days  after  this,  I  was  accosted  in  the  street 
by  the  little  girl,  and  requested  to  go  and  see  her 
mother,  as  she  was  sick.  I  found  her  more  ac- 
cessible, supplied  her  present  wants,  and  prevailed 
on  her  to  sign  the  pledge.  Subsequently  the  fa- 
ther did  the  same ;  and  to-day,  as  I  entered 
their  apartments,  the  little  beggar  girl,  neat  and 
tidy,  met  me  with  a  smile  full  of  animation,  and, 
as  I  inquired  for  her  mother,  exclaimed,  "  0 !  my 
mother^  and  my  father  too,  have  gone  to  walk  in 
the  procession,  and  I  am  getting  the  dinner.  This 
is  a  great  day,  ma'am ;  didn't  you  know  it  ?  My 
mother  says  its  thanksgiving  day,  and  we're  go- 
ing to  have  a  good  dinner,  and  that,  you  know, 
we  didn't  use  to  have — and  Mr.  N  is  going 


26S  WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


to  take  dinner  with  us,  and  he  was  like  father  was 
last  winter  ;  but  now  we  all  belong  to  the  W ash- 
ington  Temperance  Society." 

The  irrepressible  joy  of  the  dear  child  was  a 
sufficient  apology  for  her  seeming  forwardness, 
and  the  improved  appearance  of  everything  in  the 
house,  told  more  forcibly  than  words,  what  had 
wrought  the  change. 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


289 


CHAPTER  XIV. 

The  blind  made  to  see — Happiness  /ound  in  religion. — Child 
convicted,  and  taught  the  way  to  be  saved  by  the  poor 
blind  girl  whom  she  led  to  church— A  painful  case.— The 
aunt  who  took  no  interest  in  moral  reform.— The  orphan 
assisted.— the  aged  mother.— The  widow's  son  reclaimed. 
— Living  upon  the  will  of  the  Lord, 

The  blind  made  to  see^  <SfC. — October  20th.  Pas- 
sing through  O  street,  i  called  again  on  poor 

Susan  the  blind  girl  alluded  to  in  the  Advocate  of 
August  2d  r^pd  15th,  and  found  her  rejoicing  in 
the  Savior.  At  my  second  interview  with  her, 
she  m.'iiiife'.ted  such  strong  anxiety  to  go  where 
she  n.igl)i  hear  the  word  of  God,  that  I  was 
led  to  i'^end  some  time  in  the  neighborhood  in 
search  of  some  child  who  might  be  induced,  for 
a  tr'/.mg  compensation,  to  assume  the  task  of 
le*».^ing  this  poor  blind  one,  from  Sabbath  to  Sab- 
b't  h,  to  the  sanctuary.  The  attempt,  as  before 
•»  ated,  was  successful ;  an  interesting  little  girl, 
if  some  ten  or  eleven  years  old,  was  found,  whose 
nother  consented  that  if  decent  clothes  were  pro- 
vided, she  might  go  with  her  to  the  church 
and  attend  the  Sunday  school.  Her  wants  were 
supplied,  and  the  arrangements  made  for  two 
months,  and,  as  I  was  about  to  go  in  the  country 
25 


290 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


for  a  season,  after  commending  them  to  God  and 
the  word  of  his  grace,  I  left,  with  the  fond  expec- 
tation that  if  spared  to  return,  I  should  find  this 
sightless  one  gjathered  into  the  fold  of  the  Good 
Shepherd.  And,  truly,  my  faith  has  been  more 
than  answered.  The  interview  to-day  has  afford 
ed  pleasing  evidence,  that  not  only  the  blind  has 
been  made  to  see  spiritually,  but  the  dear  child  is 
also  lisping  the  praises  of  Jesus.  Bless  the  Lord, 
O  my  soul,  for  these  manifestations  of  his  love. 
Susan  states  that  about  a  month  since,  she  found 
peace  in  believing,  and  being  anxious  lo  ivear  the 
bible  read,  she  often  persuaded  the  little  girl  to 
come  and  read  it  to  her  ;  and  while  she  was  listen- 
ing to  the  precious  words  she  frequently  wept  for 
joy.  The  child,  observing  her  tears,  inquired  why 
she  wept,  and,  when  told  it  was  only  because  she 
was  so  happy,  seemed  surprised,  and  again  inquir- 
ed, "  What  is  happiness,  Susan  ?"  "  Why,  to 
love  Jesus  with  your  whole  heart,"  said  Susan. 
After  deliberating  a  little,  Rachel  replied,  "  Well, 
then  I'm  not  happy ;  and  none  of  us  at  home  are 
happy,  for  not  one  of  us  loves  Jesus."  She  said, 
further,  she  was  "  always  afraid  to  be  alone  in  the 
dark,  and  was  sure  she  was  not  fit  lo  die." 

Susan  told  her  she  must  pray  to  Jesus  to  give 
her  a  new  heart.  "O !"  said  the  child,  weeping, 
**  I'm  afraid  he  would  not  hear  me,  do  you  pray 
for  me."    They  then  knelt  together,  and  Susan, 


WALK3   OF  USEFULNESS. 


291 


though  she  could  not  see,  could  look  in  faith,  be- 
lieving the  joyful  assurance  that  "  Whosoever  will, 
may  come,  and  take  of  the  water  of  life  freely." 
The  child  went  to  her  home,  and  when  the  morn- 
ing came,  the  mother  told  her  she  must  go  out 
and  buy  bread.  It  being  the  Sabbath,  she  modest- 
ly refused,  saying  she  had  been  told  in  the  Sunday 
school  that  it  was  wicked.  As  a  punishment  for 
this  offence,  she  was  made  to  go  without  food  till 
near  night,  and  when  it  was  given  her,  she  was 
asked  by  her  ungodly  parent  if  she  would  ever  re- 
fuse again  to  buy  bread  on  a  Sunday.  "  Yes,'' 
said  Rachel,  weeping,  "  for  the  Bible  says  we 
must  remember  the  Sabbath  day,  to  keep  it  holy.'* 
On  Monday,  while  in  school,  her  mind  was  so 
exercised  that  she  could  not  study,  and  her  teach- 
ers sent  her  from  school,  supposing  she  was  ill. 
She  went  home  and  obtained  permission  of  her 
mother  to  go  and  see  Susan.  To  her  she  opened 
her  whole  heart,  and  again  begged  her  prayers. 
Through  the  week  she  found  no  relief,  and  when 
the  next  Sabbath  came,  after  leading  her  much- 
loved  charge  to  the  place  of  worship,  she  went  to 
her  class,  hoping  her  teacher  would  talk  to  her 
about  Jesus.  In  this  she  was  disappointed,  her 
teacher  was  riot  a  Christian.  Seeing  her  so  much 
affected,  and  not  knowing  what  to  say  to  her,  she 
allowed  her  to  leave  the  class,  and  go  and  sit  by 
Susan  in  the  church. 


292 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


The  minister's  text  was,  "  Lord,  help  me,"  and, 
during  the  sermon,  the  dear  child  was  directed  to 
the  Lamb  of  God,  and  found  such  peace  in  be- 
lieving, that  she  looked  up  with  a  glad  counte- 
nance to  her  blind  friend,  and  said,  "  The  Lord 
has  helped  me,  and  /  do  love  himy  From  that 
time  to  the  present,  the  change  in  her  has  been  so 
manifest,  that  there  seems  little  room  to  doubt  the 
power  of  saving  grace. 

The  above  is  narrated  in  detail,  with  the  hope 
that  praise  may  be  given  to  the  name  of  Jesus ; 
and  also  that  it  may  encourage  those  who  love  to 
remember  this  department  at  the  mercy-seat.  May 
the  disciples  of  our  Lord  Jearn  from  it  the  willing- 
ness of  the  Master  to  bless  the  feeblest  efforts ; 
and  the  impenitent  Sabbath  school  teacher  be  led 
to  reflect  on  the  imperious  necessity  of  an  experi- 
mental laiowledge  of  the  way  of  salvation,  that 
shall  enable  her  to  speak  of  the  love  of  Christ  to 
the  lambs  of  the  flock  wlio  would  fain  be  taught 
the  way. 

A  painful  case. — 

'*  Then  gently  scan  your  brother  man, 

Still  gentler  sister  woman, 
Tho'  they  may  gang  sae  gronsome  wrang, 

To  step  aside  is  human. 
One  point  must  still  be  greatly  dark, 

The  moving  tthy  they  do  it, 
And  just  as  lamely  can  ye  mark, 

How  far,  perhaps,  they  rue  it."— Burns 

24iA.  Being  in  the  vicinity  of  Church  street 


WALKS  OF  LJEFDLNESS. 


293 


this  afternoon,  1  was  led  to  spend  an  hour  or  two 
in  distributing  tracts  and  papers  in  the  neighbor- 
hood of  the  theatre  that  was  destroyed  by  fire 
some  months  since. 

While  about  my  work  I  observed,  through  an 
open  door,  a  wash-woman  hanging  her  clothes  in 
the  yard.  Supposing  from  the  appearance  of  the 
children  about  the  premises  that  she  might  be  a 
mother,  I  went  to  her,  and  accosted  her  with  the 
inquiry,  "  Do  you  wash  for  these  haunts  of  misery  ?** 
"  I  can  do  nothing  better,"  she  replied,  "  I've  a 
large  family  of  small  children,  and  they  must  go 
to  the  poorhouse  if  I  don't  earn  their  bread  in 
some  way — and  I've  no  trade."  "  But  my  friend, 
is  it  not  better  to  put  your  children  at  '  the  farms,' 
and  go  to  a  service-place  yourself,  than  to  receive 
the  wages  of  iniquity,  and  lose  your  soul  ?"  She 
looked  at  me  with  surprise  and  said,  "  Do  walk  in, 
lady ;  I've  a  very  sick  young  woman  here,  she 
can  not  speak,  but  you  can  talk  to  her,  and  may 
do  her  good."  I  went  as  requested,  and  beheld 
upon  the  floor  a  sight  that  beggars  description.  A 
young  woman,  yet  in  her  teens,  was  lying  upon  a 
mattress  in  a  most  horrible  «ondition.  Her  head, 
face,  and  eyes,  were  swollen  to  twice  their  usual 
size,  her  tongue  more  than  filled  her  mouth,  and 
was  so  stifi'ened  that  she  could  not  use  it,  and  her 
suflferings  seemed  extreme.  I  learned  that  she 
had  been  but  eighteen  months  in  the  house  of  her 
55* 


294 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


"whose  steps  take  hold  on  hell."  On  entering 
there  she  was  considered  beautiful ;  left  beloved 
and  justly-respected  friends,  a  circle  of  refine- 
ment, and  the  endearments  of  virtuous  society. 
The  penalty  of  her  short  career  had  overtaken  her 
at  an  early  hour,  and  as  she  she  lay  there  speech- 
less, the  expression  of  her  countenance  bespoke 
the  anguish  that  struggled  in  vain  for  utterance. 
She  listened  to  my  message,  and  by  signs  ex- 
pressed a  wish  to  use  my  pencil.  A  pencil  was 
handed  her,  and  she  impediately  wrote  the  name 
and  residence  of  an  aunt,  in  a  remote  part  of  the 
city,  who  had  brought  her  up,  and  signified  her 
wish  that  I  should  make  this  lady  acquainted  with 
her  situation. 

It  seemed  that  the  vile  harpy  with  whom  she 
had  boarded,  when  she  became  ill,  took  her  room 
and  clothing  from  her,  and  bid  her  take  a  carriage 
and  go  to  the  hospital.  She  could  not  do  this, 
without  making  her  case  more  public,  and  thus  ex- 
posing her  relatives — and  therefore  she  begged 
her  wash-woman  to  give  her  a  temporary  shelter. 
This  poor  woman,  feeling  under  some  obligation 
for  the  kindness  she  said  the  girl  had  shown  her, 
when  she  had  been  in  extreme  want — gave  her 
such  accommodations  as  she  had,  and  they  were 
poor  enough.  Calomel  had  been  administered  to 
remove  the  worst  of  maladies,  and  exposure  to  the 
cold  had  rendered  its  eflfecls  dreadful.    She  was 


■WALKS   OF  USEFULXESS. 


295 


suffering  for  clothing  and  nourishment — and  view- 
ing her  as  a  fellow-being  in  distress,  and  finding 
my  own  purse  empty,  I  called  on  a  sister  in  the 
Lord,  near  by,  who  readily  gave  me  the  means  to 
supply  her  immediate  necessities.  Having  done 
this,  I  left  her  with  a  full  heart,  uttering  mentally 
in  bitterness  of  soul,  "  Oh,  Sin,  Sin,  Sin  !  what 
hast  thou  done  !" 

The  aunt  who  took  no  interest  in  moral  reform. — 
2bth.  This  morning  went  in  search  of  the  aunt  of 
the  unfortunate  girl,  and  succeeded  in  finding  her 
residence.  As  an  introduction,  I  presented  my 
tracts,  and  papers,  and  petition.  She  received 
them,  and  treated  me  courteously — but  said,  "  she 
knew  nothing  about  moral  reform,  and  took  no  in- 
terest at  all  in  it."  After  some  conversation  on 
the  general  subject,  I  told  her  X\\2iishe  had  an  inter- 
est in  it,  and  ought  to  feel  an  interest  that  should 
lead  her  to  take  the  paper,  and  do  other  things  to 
promote  the  cause,  and  inquired  if  she  had  ever  a 
niece  ?  "  Yes,"  she  replied.  "  Well,  do  you 
know  where  she  is  ?"  "  No,"  said  she,  with  an  in- 
quiring look — "  she  has  been  absent  for  eighteen 
months,  and  I  have  heard  nothing  from  her."  "  If 
you  would  like  to  find  her,"  I  continued,  "  and 
will  go  with  me,  I  will  take  you  to  the  place  where 
she  is."  She  seemed  much  surprised,  and  with 
trembling  haste  prepared  to  go. 

As  we  entered  the  miserable  abode,  and  beheld 


296 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


the  guilty  sufferer,  her  emotions  of  surprise  and 
horror  ahnost  overpowered  her.  When  she  could 
command  language,  she  talked  to  her  as  the  child 
of  her  adoption,  who  had  once  been  the  idol  and 
pride  of  her  heart,  exclaiming  at  intervals — "  Oh, 
can  it  be — can  it  be — that  this  is  you?"  The 
scene  was  most  affecting.  Before  leaving,  she 
made  arrangements  to  have  her  properly  taken 
care  of,  and  returned  to  her  home,  with  different 
impressions  concerning  the  necessity  of  Moral 
Reform  efforts,  from  those  she  had  cherished  an 
hour  or  two  previous. 

Orphan  assisted. — Some  five  weeks  since,  a 
few  days  were  appropriated  to  visiting  the  sewing 
departments  of  several  of  the  manufacturing  estab- 
lishments of  our  city.  Having  obtained  permis- 
sion from  the  proprietor,  I  usually  devoted  a  half 
hour  or  more  to  reading  to  them  collectively,  either 
from  the  Bible,  or  some  of  our  tracts  that  might  in- 
terest and  benefit  them. 

In  one  instance,  while  reading  the  trafct,  "  What 
can  Young  Women  do  ?"  to  a  large  circle  of  atten- 
tive hearers,  I  observed  one  of  the  number  appear- 
ed much  affected.  Before  leaving,  I  sought  an 
opportunity  to  converse  with  her,  and  found  no 
difficulty  in  gaining  her  confidence,  and  learning 
her  circumstances.  She  was  young — her  person 
and  manners  were  prepossessing  ;  but,  as  she  was 
a  friendless  orphan,  she  was  obliged  to  find  a 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


297 


home  among  strangers,  and  make  her  way  through 
life  as  she  best  could.  Her  health  was  poor,  and 
she  had  no  interest  in  the  Friend  of  sinners.  She 
confessed  that  she  was  exposed  to  all  the  dangers 
alluded  to  in  the  tract  just  read,  and  wept  as  though 
her  heart  would  break,  in  view  of  her  desolate 
condition.  The  next  evening  after  ihis  interview, 
she  called  on  me  (I  had  given  her  my  address), 
and  asked  if  I  would  be  her  friend,  saying  she 
needed  counsel  and  aid.  Her  earnest  desire  was 
to  obtain  board  in  a  pious  family.  Her  present 
boarding-place  was  respectable,  but  there  were 
many  boarders  of  both  sexes  ;  more  or  less  card- 
playing  during  the  week;  and  late  rising  and  sump- 
tuous dinners  on  the  Sabbath,  kept  the  family  from 
church  till  evening  ;  and  she  felt  that  she  could 
not  seek  the  Lord  with  her  whole  heart,  till  she 
could  find  a  more  quiet  home.  Such  a  place  as 
she  desired  was  immediately  obtained.  She  was 
invited  to  a  protracted  meeting,  which  she  has  at- 
tended with  deep  interest,  and,  what  is  best  of  all, 
she  has  found  peace  in  believing,  and  is  now  re- 
joicing in  Christ  her  Savior.  She  says  the  read- 
ing of  the  tract  first  produced  conviction  of  sin, 
and  awakened  in  her  mind  the  inquiry,  "  What 
shall  I  do  to  be  saved  ?" 

The  aged  mother. — While  visiting  in  different 
families,  I  found  some  opportunities  of  doing  good. 
One  CELse  was  peculiarly  interesting.    It  was  that 


298 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


of  an  aged  woman,  sadly  afflicted  with  rheumatism 
She  could  not  use  her  hands,  or  in  any  way  help 
herself.  The  care  of  the  invalid  devolved  upon  a 
daughter,  whose  patience  seemed  well  nigh  ex- 
hausted by  the  extreme  irritability  of  the  afflicted 
mother.  I  inquired  of  the  sufferer  if  her  soul  was 
at  peace.  She  replied  that  she  was  very  wretch- 
ed, her  mind  was  dark,  and  the  future  seemed 
darker  still.  I  desired  her  to  read  the  Bible, 
whence  she  might  draw  consolation,  and  find 
peace.  She  said,  "  My  sight  is  dim,  and  I  could 
not  read  without  spectacles — and  even  should  they 
be  provided,  my  hands  are  useless,  and  I  could 
not  hold  the  book."  I  was  deeply  affected  with 
compassion  for  the  sufferer. 

Prayer  was  proposed .  The  poor  woman  seemed 
delighted  at  the  thought,  and  remarked  that  it  was 
a  long  time  since  she  had  heard  the  voice  of  pray- 
er. We  spent  a  precious  season  before  the  mercy- 
seat.  When  the  children  came  in  from  school, 
she  was  much  disturbed.  I  tried  to  sooth  her, 
but  soon  perceived  that  some  little  trials  in  her 
daughter's  family,  rendered  her  quite  unhappy.  I 
felt  that  she  did  not  suffer  alone. 

After  finding  my  spectacles  aided  the  sight  of 
the  aged  woman,  I  left  her  to  go  in  search  of  ar&- 
cles  to  relieve  her  necessities.  For  a  trifle,  I 
purchased  a  pair  of  spectacles,  and  then  went  to  a 
carpenter,  and  desired  him  to  make  a  stand,  upon 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


299 


which  a  book  might  be  placed  before  the  helpless 
invalid,  so  that  she  could  read.  The  stand  was 
made  free  of  charge,  for  the  maker  possessed  the 
spirit  of  Him  who,  when  he  lived  on  earth,  was 
nailed  "  the  carpenter's  son."  With  these  helps, 
the  poor  woman  was  enabled  again  to  read  her 
long-neglected  bible,  the  leaves  being  turned  oc- 
casionally by  her  daughter  and  grand-children,  as 
they  happened  to  pass  the  chair  on  which  she  sat. 

Thanksgiving  day,  I  called  again.  "  Oh,"  said 
she,  "  I  have  great  cause  for  gratitude  to  God.  I 
have  been  taught,  by  reading  the  blessed  Bible, 
that  my  old  hope  was  worthless,  and  I  have  thrown 
it  away,  and  found  Jesus  a  precious  Savior — now 
I  enjoy  his  presence,  and  the  light  of  his  counte- 
nance. My  Goul  is  grateful  to  the  Lord,  who  has 
put  it  into  th';  heart  of  our  governor  to  proclaim  a 
thanksgiving  O,  what  a  happy  thanksgiving 
this  is  to  me.  I  desire  that  others,  too,  may  be 
blessed,  and  that  many  souls  may  rejoice  in  his 
love."  Her  daughter  remarked,  "  I  think  mother 
is  very  Jiappy  now  in  reading  her  bible — she  seems 
to  care  more  for  it  than  anything  else.  She  is  not 
disturbed  now,  as  she  used  to  be,  by  the  noise  of 
her  children,  and  little  things  do  not  make  her 
peevish  and  fretful." 

Thewidow's  son  reclaimed. — Jan.  4th.  While  en- 
gaged in  my  usual  employment  of  visiting,  I  met  with 
an  old  lady  living  in  an  attic  room,  whose  appear- 


300 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNFSS. 


ance  was  peculiarly  neat  and  interesting.  Upon 
presenting  her  the  Advocate  and  some  tracts,  she 
dropped  her  knitting-work,  and  her  countenance 
glowed  with  animation  as  she  received  them  and 
said,  "  You  may  be  the  same  lady  who  once  visit- 
ed a  place  where  my  son  was."  She  paused,  ap- 
parently deeply  affected  at  the  thought  of  her  son, 
but  soon  continued  ;  "  I  have  had  a  most  unfortu- 
nate child,  and  these  tears  are  those  of  joy,  mixed 
with  sorrow  on  his  account."  She  appeared  for  a 
moment  at  a  loss  whether  to  go  on,  or  inquire 
who  I  was.  She  soon,  however,  proceeded  to 
give  me  something  of  her  own  histor\-,  which  was 
briefly  this  :  she  was  a  widow  with  two  sons  and 
one  daughter.  Twelve  or  thirteen  years  ago  she 
removed  from  the  country  to  this  city,  on  account 
of  her  second  son,  whose  constitution  was  natural- 
ly delicate,  and  she  feared  was  inadequate  to  the 
labors  of  a  mechanic.  Her  eldest  son  she  early 
placed  with  a  farmer  in  the  country,  who  had 
brought  him  up  to  the  same  occupation,  and  he  is 
now  occupying  a  little  farm  of  his  own,  a  pious 
and  respectable  man.  "  Oh  that  I  had  placed  my 
other  son  in  the  same  circumstances,"  said  the 
mother  with  deep  emotion  ;  "  but  I  placed  him  in 
a  wholesale  and  retail  grocery.  There  he  soon 
learned  to  taste  the  cup,  whose  dregs  are  wo  and 
death     After  a  while,  he  commenced  business 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


301 


for  himself.  His  downward  career  was  a  rapid 
one.  He  derived  his  principal  income  from  the 
sale  of  liquor.  His  place  of  business  was  the  re- 
sort of  the  low  and  idle,  who  would  hang  around 
to  a  late  hour  at  night ;  and  after  drinking  freely, 
they  would  often  quarrel.  For  some  act  of  vio- 
lence in  one  of  these  seasons,  he  was  committed 
to  prison  for  thirty  days. 

After  his  release,  he  hastened  to  his  mother, 
and  told  her  he  was  going  to  his  brother's,  in  the 
country, — that  while  in  prison,  two  ladies  visited 
the  cells.  One  of  them  addressed  him,  and  re- 
marked, "  My  son,  I'm  sorry  to  see  you  here." 
"  And  I  am  sorry  to  be  here,"  he  replied.  "  Have 
you  a  mother  ?"  asked  the  lady.  At  this  question 
he  was  much  affected.  She  remarked  to  him 
"  There  is  hope  in  your  case  yet,"  and  asked  him 
to  "  sign  the  pledge."  He  asked  her  if  she  would 
take  the  pledge  from  him  while  he  was  locked  up 
in  prison.  She  replied,  "  Yes,  for  locks  and  keys 
will  not  make  a  good  man  of  you,  but  your  own 
will  and  efforts."  He  gave  his  name  to  the  pledge, 
and  received  the  Advocate  and  some  tracts.  And 
after  relating  the  above,  he  said,  "  Now,  mother,  I 
am  going  to  my  brother's,  for  the  words  of  the  la- 
dy are  continually  following  me,  '  There  is  hope 
in  your  case.'  "  As  soon  as  his  mother  could  put 
his  clothes  in  order,  he  went  to  his  brother's,  and 
although  a  year  has  elapsed,  he  still  continues 


302 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


there,  and  is  doing  well.  He  keeps  his  temper- 
ance pledge  strictly,  is  very  attentive  to  business, 
attends  regularly  upon  public  worship,  and  is  quite 
seriously  disposed.  The  tract,  "  Run,  speak  to 
that  young  Man,"  which  he  received  in  prison 
has  deeply  affected  him.  The  mother  says  she 
never  saw  an  Advocate  till  her  son  brought  ont 
from  prison,  but  she  was  deeply  interested  in  that 
She  said  she  could  most  heartily  bid  us  God  speed 
in  our  work — she  believed  it  was  the  work  of  the 
Lord.  She  is  quite  confined  at  home,  for  she  is 
a  cripple,  and  her  daughter  is  subject  to  fits.  But 
though  thus  afflicted,  she  seems  to  feel  that  she 
has  great  reason  for  rejoicing.  She  can  not  for- 
give herself  for  having  placed  her  son  in  such  cir- 
cumstances as  she  did.  She  says,  if  she  could 
make  her  voice  heard  through  the  length  and 
breadth  of  the  land,  she  would  warn  all  mothers, 
especially  widowed  ones,  against  placing  their 
sons  in  anti-temperance  groceries.  "  Let  them  do 
anything,"  she  said,  "  rather  than  expose  them  to 
such  fearful  temptations.  It  is  almost  certain  ruin." 

This  incident  comes  home  to  the  visiter's  heart 
most  cheeringly  ;  for  it  is  the  first  instance  that 
has  come  to  our  knowledge,  of  a  blessing  attend- 
ing our  labors  among  the  prisoners.  We  have 
long  visited  them,  and  for  three  years  the  society 
has  had  a  library  there  ;  but  our  Master,  in  whose 
service  we  labor,  has  only  known  the  results.  We 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


303 


desire  to  bless  his  name,  that  he  has  permitted 
this  case  to  come  to  our  knowledge  for  our  en- 
couragement. If  one  poor  victim  of  crime  and 
intemperance  is  saved  from  temporal  ruin,  restored 
to  society,  and  his  afflicted  mother,  it  has  not  been 
in  vain  that  we  have  encountered  the  loathsome 
air  of  the  prison — we  have  not  "  labored  in  vain, 
or  spent  our  strength  for  naught." 

Jan.  Wth.  Soliciting  a  short  time  since,  in  be- 
half of  the  poor,  I  called  at  a  large,  genteel  look- 
ing house,  and  was  invited  by  a  servant  up  stairs. 
I  found  there  a  most  melancholy  looking  lady, 
habited  in  deep  mourning.  Upon  presenting  my 
errand,  and  remarking  that  "  he  who  giveth  to  the 
poor,  lendeth  to  the  Lord,"  she  replied,  "  I  fear 
the  Lord  wftl  have  nothing  to  do  with  me  or  mine." 
She  appeared  deeply  dejected,  almost  in  despair ; 
said  she  had  just  buried  a  beloved  mother,  and  was 
an  afflicted  and  sinful  woman.  She  said  she  had 
been  very  gay  and  thoughtless,  and  had  preferred 
any  kind  of  reading  that  was  decent,  to  the  Bible. 
Her  mother,  with  her  dying  breath,  requested  her 
to  read  the  Bible — told  her  she  would  there  learn 
what  she  was,  and  what  she  must  do.  "  I  have 
read  it,"  she  said,  "  and  find  it  does  tell  me  what 
I  am  ;  and  I  am  almost  in  despair."  We  had  a 
long  and  interesting  conversation,  and  at  her  re- 
quest, we  spent  a  season  in  prayer.  I  endeavored 
to  direct  her  to  Christ,  and  to  truth,  and  left  her 


304 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


with  a  degree  of  faith  that  the  Savior  would  soon 
appear  for  the  deliverance  of  her  soul.  Before 
leaving  her,  I  advised  her  to  fix  upon  some  regu- 
lar place  for  public  worship  (she  said  she  had 
been  running  about  from  place  to  place),  and  to 
continue  the  reading  of  the  Bible,  and  if  she  wish- 
ed for  other  reading,  to  read  hymns.  Upon  calling 
to-day,  I  found  she  was  rejoicing  in  the  Lord. 
The  dark  clouds  of  despair  and  unbelief  were  dis- 
sipated while  she  was  reading  the  hymn,  "  Jesus, 
lover  of  my  soul."  The  family  are  very  gay,  and 
she  starts  in  the  Christian  race  alone.  May  she 
be  kept  by  the  great  Shepherd.  I  inferred  from 
her  remarks,  that  she  had  been  a  great  novel 
reader.  She  said,  "  O,  if  people  could  but  realize 
the  injury  they  do  their  minds,  by  reading  such 
trash,  they  would  cease,  and  read  their  bibles 
more."  I  could  but  think  that  this  soul  might  long 
since  have  been  rejoicing  in  the  light  and  liberty 
of  the  gospel,  had  it  not  been  for  the  infidelity  and 
dissipation  occasioned  by  novel-reading. 

How  carefully  should  mothers  watch  over  the 
early  tastes  of  their  children,  and  pre-occupy  their 
minds  with  that  kind  of  reading  that  will  strength- 
en and  elevate.  I  do  believe  that  the  pernicious 
practice  of  novel  reading  has  shielded  from  truth 
thousands  of  minds  that  might  otherwise  have  been 
reached.  Eternity  alone  can  reveal  the  vast 
amount  of  evil  done  by  such  books.    With  moth- 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


305 


ers  rests  a  fearful  responsibility  vviih  reference  to 
this  thing. 

Lwing  upon  the  will  of  the  Lord. — Some  weeks 
since,  I  was  solicited  to  visit  an  aged  saint,  near 
eighty  years  of  age,  who  was  deaf  and  lame.  While 
crossing  the  street  a  short  time  previous,  in  con- 
sequence of  the  carelessness  of  a  driver,  she  was 
thrown  down,  and  was  unable  to  escape  till  the 
wheels  of  the  conveyance  had  passed  over  her.  I 
found  her  in  an  humble,  but  quiet  home,  receiving 
the  attention  and  care  of  a  poor  widow,  who  was 
rich  in  faith  and  good  works,  and  during  the  inter- 
view with  them,  witnessed  with  great  satisfaction 
the  consoling  power  of  religion.  After  offering 
the  pecuniary  aid  which  I  came  to  impart,  1  was 
led  to  express  sympathy  for  her  manifest  suffer- 
ings, and  also  that  a  beloved  daughter  had  that 
day  been  buried  from  her  «ight,  while,  owing  to 
her  indisposition,  slie  had  not  been  able  to  go  to 
her  dying  couch,  and  take  a  last  farewell.  While 
speaking  thus,  she  raised  herself  a  little,  and  with 
an  earnest  look  inquired  of  me,  "  Do  you  know 
the  love  of  God  ?  /  have  been  forty  years  living 
upon  the  will  of  the  Lord,  and  I  fnd  it  love.  In 
answer  to  my  poor  prayers,  that  daughter  was  at 
last  converted.  I  had  prayed  many  a  long  year 
that  the  Lord  would  convert  her,  and  give  me  an 
evidence  that  the  work  was  done — and  my  desires 
were  fully  answered.    Before  leaving  the  world, 


306 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


though  she  had  a  family  of  little  ones,  she  was  se 
lost  in  the  will  of  God,  that  she  was  as  willing  to 
die  as  to  live."  This  dear  disciple  enjoyed  a  con- 
sciousness that  "  these  light  afflictions,  which  are 
but  for  a  moment,"  were  working  out  for  her  a  far 
more  exceeding  and  eternal  weight  of  glory.  Since 
that  interview  I  have  been  lying  most  of  the 
time  upon  a  sick  bed — and  during  the  wearisome 
days  and  nights  that  have  been  appointed  unto  me, 
I  have  found  it  sweet  to  dwell  upon  that  expres- 
sion alluded  to  above — "  Living  upon  the  will  of 
God."    0  how  blessed.* 

*  This  was  dictated  after  being  confined  to  her  room. 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


307 


CHAPTER  XV. 

Remarks. — Shades  of  natural  character. — Anli-sectarian  spirit. 
Love  of  music. — Favorite  hymn. — Manner  of  rebuking  sin. 
Effect  of  witnessing  scenes  of  sorrow  and  guilt. — Last  day 
of  active  personal  effort. — Special  baptism  of  the  Spirit. 
— Illness. — Submission. — Gratitude  for  mercies. — Views  of 
heaven. — Interest  in  tlie  cause  of  moral  purity. — Faithful- 
ness to  the  imj)enitent. — Preparation  to  depart. — Interview 
with  a  fellow-laborer.— Wishes  with  regard  to  her  funeral. — 
Last  conversation. — Death. — Singular  appearance  of  the 
body. — Funeral  deferred. — Services. — Concluding  remarks. 
— Lines  suggested  by  a  review  of  her  life. 

"  Is  that  a  death-bed  where  the  Christian  lies  7 
Yes  !  but  not  his;  'tis  death  itself  there  dies." 

Coleridge. 

We  have  come  now  to  the  close  of  the  last  re- 
port dictated  from  those  lips  so  soon  to  speak  no 
more.  After  a  few  brief  statements,  we  have  next 
to  take  the  reader  to  the  quiet  room  where  the 
clay  tenement  must  crumble  beneath  the  power  of 
disease,  and  the  messenger  of  death — disrobed  of 
terror — gently  dismiss  the  redeemed  one  from  her 
work  on  earth,  to  her  crown  and  inheritance  in 
heaven.  In  the  summing  up  of  Mrs.  Prior's  earth- 
ly course,  it  may  be  proper  to  remark  that  the  pre- 
ceding pages  give  but  an  imperfect,  though  unvar- 
nished sketch,  of  the  labors  in  which,  for  the  last 


0 


30S 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


few  years,  she  was  made  so  abundantly  useful.  A 
faithful  and  unbroken  record  of  her  work  from  day 
to  day,  together  with  her  exercises  of  mind  and 
occasional  rich  expressions,  exhibiting  the  en- 
larged and  exalted  views  that  sometimes  filled  her 
whole  mental  vision,  it  has  not  been  in  our  power 
to  give.  In  compiling  these  pages  we  have  had 
no  wish  to  exalt  the  creature,  or  give  unmerited 
prominence  to  her  "  work  of  faith  and  labor  of  love." 
To  our  own  mind  the  agency  of  the  Spirit  and  the 
grace  of  God  are  conspicuously  manifest  in  all  the 
good  she  was  enabled  to  accomplish  ;  and  the  rec- 
ord of  every  pleasing  result  bears  testimony  to 
his  love  and  faithfulness.  When  she  dictated  the 
preceding  journal  the  conviction  was  ever  clear  to 
us  that  it  was  the  deep  desire  of  her  sovd  to  get 
behind  the  Cross,  and  from  that  point  only  would 
we  wish  the  reader  to  view  her  Christian  example, 
as  exhibited  in  this  little  work.  The  shades  in 
Mrs.  Prior's  natural  character  have  been  before 
alluded  to.  These  were  not  prominent,  but  were 
occasionally  manifest  to  those  who  knew  her  most 
intimately  ;  they  were,  a  keen  sense  of  injuries  ; 
an  acute  sensibility,  too  easily  wounded  ;  a  nervous 
temperament  that  sometimes  induced  undue  care- 
fulness and  apprehension  respecting  the  future ;  but 
these  things  were  ever  under  entire  control  when 
her  eye  was  directed  to  Jesus,  and  her  soul  stayed 
itself  on  God.    She  knew  well  the  plague  of  her 


WALKS  OF  USETULNESS. 


309 


own  heart,  and  the  devices  of  our  common  enemy, 
and  warred  with  temptation  and  sin  as  one  who 
had  learned  to  "  fight  the  good  fight  of  faith."  Her 
fellowship  with  the  people  of  God  was  such,  that 
Christians  of  all  denominations  were  accustomed 
to  regard  her  as  one  with  themselves,  in  feeling 
and  action.  Where  the  love  of  Jesus  was  manifest, 
the  points  of  sectarian  difference  seemed  to  her 
so  trivial,  that  they  were  never  named ;  and  her 
special  Christian  attachments  were  as  often  formed 
out  of  the  pale  of  her  own  church  as  within  it. 
There  were  chords  in  her  heart  tuned  to  the  finest 
melody  ;  she  frequently  enjoyed  the  song  of  praise 
in  the  highest  possible  degree,  and  at  times  when 
joining  in  it  her  countenance  would  seem  to  re- 
spond to  the  lines — 

"  My  willing:  soul  would  stay 
In  such  a  frame  as  this, 
And  sit  and  sing-  herself  away 
To  everlasting  bliss." 

We  recollect  her  calling  at  one  time  after  hav- 
ing had  a  delightful  season  of  prayer  and  praise 
with  a  mother,  for  whom  she  had  been  laboring 
and  who  she  had  just  found  rejoicing  in  hope.  In 
describing  the  interview  she  said  she  had  sung  for 
her  the  following  hymn,  and  at  our  request  re- 
peated it.  Never  shall  we  forget  the  expression 
of  devotion  that  beamed  from  her  tearful  eye  as 
she  sung — 


310 


wALKi  OF  5.si:i-i'l.\l;ss. 


"Religion  is  a  glorious  treasure, 

It  fills  our  souls  v/itli  joy  and  love, 
Affording  peace  and  consolation, 

It  lilts  our  hearts  to  things  above. 
It  calms  our  fears  and  sooths  our  sorrows, 

It  smooths  our  way  o'er  life's  rough  sea; 
Gives  peace  of  mind  and  holy  virtue, 

This  heavenly  portion  mine  shall  be. 

"  My  flesh  and  blood  sliall  be  dissolved. 

My  mortal  life  sliall  soon  be  o'er. 
All  earthly  cares  and  earthly  sorrow. 

Will  vex  my  heart  and  eyes  no  more. 
But  pure  religion  abides  for  ever — 

And  my  glad  heart  shall  strengthened  be 
While  endless  ages  are  onward  rolling. 

This  heavenly  portion  mine  shall  be. 

"  While  travelling  through  great  tribulation, 

In  love  and  union  we'll  march  along, 
And  not  contend  for  non-essentials. 

But  in  the  Lord  we'll  all  be  strong. 
'Tis  pure  religion  unites  together, 

In  hope  and  faith  makes  all  agree; 
While  endless  ages  are  onward  rolling, 

This  heavenly  portion  mine  shall  be. 

"How  vain,  how  fleet,  how  transitory, 

Tiiis  world  with  all  its  gaudy  show, 
Its  vain  delights,  deceitful  pleasure, 

I'll  gladly  leave  them  all  below. 
But  grace  and  glory  shall  be  my  story. 

Since  I  in  Jesus  such  beauties  see ; 
While  endless  ages  are  onward  rolling. 

This  heavenly  portion  mine  shall  be." 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


311 


These  lines  are  inseited,  not  because  tliey  pos- 
sess any  poetical  merit,  but  simply  as  an  expres- 
sion ol'  the  sentiments  she  used  to  delight  to  sing, 
and  speak,  and  Uve,  while  she  had  her  conversa- 
tion in  the  world.  Her  maternal  character  was 
most  kind  and  endearing.  Persons  have  been 
frequently  heard  to  remark,  "  If  I  needed  severe 
reproof,  I  would  rather  receive  it  from  Mrs.  Prior 
than  any  one  else."  Her  ability  to  evince  her 
love  for  the  sinner,  while  she  faithfully  rebuked 
the  sin,  was  indeed  peculiar.  The  following  may 
serve  as  an  instance  : — we  were  one  day  passing 
together  from  this  city  to  BrookljTi  to  meet  an  en- 
gagement at  a  certain  hour.  Being  unavoidably 
detained,  when  we  arrived  at  the  ferry  the  boat 
was  just  ready  to  push  off ;  supposing  we  could 
step  on  board,  she  made  the  attempt  but  was  an  in- 
stant too  late.  A  coarse  laugh  was  at  once  heard 
from  the  gate-tender  who  observed  her  disappoint- 
ment, and  turning  immediately  to  him  she  gave 
him  her  hand,  and  said  in  the  kindest  tones,  "  My 
son,  I'm  a  stranger  but  I  want  to  speak  to  you  as 
a  mother ;  the  thought  came  to  me  with  great  force 
as  that  boat  pushed  off,  what  an  awful  disappoint- 
ment it  would  be  to  get  just  one  step  from  heaven's 
gate  and  then  not  enter  it.'^  The  tears  fell  as  she 
proceeded,  "  My  son,  you  have  a  precious  soul ; 
you  hope,  perhaps,  to  go  to  heaven,  but  do  you 
love  the  Savior?    Have  you  made  your  peace 


312 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


with  God,  and  do  you  serve  liim  with  your  whole 
heart,  so  that  you  are  sure  you  will  not  be  disap- 
pointed at  the  last  day."  Before  she  had  done 
speaking,  the  fallen  countenance  and  treniulov.s 
lip,  indicated  that  her  words  had  made  an  impres- 
sion that  would  be  remembered. 

The  strength  of  her  emotions  was  peculiar. 
They  were  ever  a  great  deep  within,  and  the 
varied  scenes  of  painful  interest  that  so  often 
passed  before  her  seemed  not  at  all  to  blunt  the 
finer  sensibilities  of  her  nature.  When  these 
scenes  were  before  her  the  reflection  seemed  to 
arise,  "  The  eye  of  God  is  upon  tliis,  now  how 
does  he  feel  as  he  beholds  it  V  and  then  the 
prayer  was  breathed  that  her  feelings  might  ac- 
cord with  his ;  and  if  there  was  anything  for  her 
to  do,  that  she  might  be  enabled  to  do  it  in  obe- 
dience to  his  will. 

Her  gratitude  to  God  for  his  mercies  was  al- 
most unbounded.  After  visiting  the  Insane  asy- 
lum at  one  time,  she  was  so  overcome  in  view 
of  the  fact  that  her  reason  was  spared,  when  she 
had  so  many  times  forfeited  the  blessing,  that  for 
the  time  being  strength  to  stand  seemed  almost  to 
fail  her.  A  similar  effect  was  often  produced  by 
witnessing  scenes  of  suffering  or  guilt. 

Her  last  work  was  done,  as  usual,  as  though 
she  expected  it  might  be  her  last,  although  at  the 
time  she  had  no  such  apprehension.  If  the  reader 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


313 


has  followed  her  thus  far  in  life,  we  need  not  say 
to  him  "  come  and  see  how  a  Christian  can  die." 
Had  we  known  her  less  intimately,  had  we  loved 
her  less,  the  associations  that  come  rushing  upon 
the  heart  at  this  point,  would  suffer  the  pen  the 
more  readily  to  do  its  office.  Were  there  others 
left  to  fill  the  void  occasioned  by  her  departure — 
to  care  for  the  poor,  the  sorrowful,  the  wretched, 
as  she  cared,  and  labor  with  the  same  self-sacrifi- 
cing love  for  the  deathless  souls  for  whom  Jesus 
died — we  might  write  with  a  dry  eye  and  a  heart 
rejoicing  only  in  her  joy. 

"  Joy  such  as  mortals  can  not  speak 
And  angels  can  not  know." 

But  the  Lord  had  need  of  her,  and  to  one  who 
had  so  long  borne  the  burden  and  heat  of  the  day, 
the  message,  "  Child,  your  Father  calls — come 
home"  conveyed  most  welcome  sounds. 

The  day  previous  to  her  attack  of  illness  was 
one  of  toil.  She  walked  to  a  distant  part  of  the 
city  for  the  purpose  of  visiting  a  sick  impenitent 
woman,  not  expected  to  live,  with  whom  she  had 
labored  much  when  in  health.  She  conversed 
and  prayed  with  her  for  sometime,  as  though  she 
knew  not  how  to  give  her  up,  then  left,  and  met 
other  engagements,  and  in  the  evening  attended  a 
weekly  lecture.  The  subject  discoursed  upon 
was  from  the  text,  "  My  God  will  supply  all  your 
need."  While  listening  to  the  sermon,  she  had 
27 


314 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


such  an  apprehension  of  Christ,  as  a  Savior  suit 
ed  to  all  her  necessities,  and  of  the  loveliness  and 
ineffahle  glory  of  his  character,  that  her  heart  was 
melted  to  tenderness,  and  oppressed  with  emo- 
tions to  which  no  language  could  give  utterance. 
She  wept  aloud,  from  inability  to  suppress  her 
feelings  ;  but  though  her  face  was  sulfused  with 
tears,  yet  it  beamed  with  a  se'-enity  most  peaceful 
and  heavenly,  while,  as  if  unconscious  of  all 
around  her,  she  uttered  audibly,  "  Praise  Jesus  ! 
I  must  praise  my  Savior!  I  will  praise  my  Sav- 
ior !"  A  Christian  sister  who  sat  near  her  re- 
marked, that  the  scene  was  deeply  affecting,  and 
when  she  parted  with  her,  her  face  shone  as  did 
Moses's.  In  speaking  of  this  occasion  afterward, 
Mrs.  Prior  remarked,  that  she  enjoyed  that  even- 
ing a  most  delightful  foretaste  of  heaven.  While 
looking  at  the  Cross,  her  soul  became  fdlcd  with 
joy  unspeakable,  and  full  of  glory,  and  she  seemed 
to  sink  at  the  feet  of  Jesus,  and  lose  herself  in  the 
great  ocean  of  his  love.  That  night  she  retired 
much  fatigued,  and  was  awaked  before  morning 
with  severe  pain  from  an  attack  of  pleurisy.  A 
physician  was  called  immediately,  and  after  a  day 
or  two,  temporary  relief  was  afforded  ;  but  she 
seemed  to  suffer  much  from  debility.  An  inflam- 
mation of  the  lungs  succeeded,  and  though  checked 
somewhat,  the  cough  continued,  and  was  attended 
by  a  complicaflion  of  diseases  affecting  the  general 


WALKS   OF  USEIUL\E«S. 


315 


system,  and  producing  much  physical  suffering. 
Her  mind  was  kept  in  a  sweet,  dehghtful  frame, 
and  her  communion  with  God  was,  most  of  the 
time,  uninterrupted.  One  night,  while  we  were 
watching  with  her,  she  conversed  with  great  free- 
dom about  the  work  in  which  she  had  been  en- 
gaged. She  alluded  to  a  severe  illness  that  she 
had  the  winter  previous,  from  which  she  did  not 
then  expect  to  recover — the  respite  that  had  been 
graciously  given,  and  the  goodness  of  God  in  per- 
mitting her  thus  long  to  labor  in  his  vineyard,  and 
giving  her  so  many  precious  tokens  of  his  love. 
Then,  after  being  silent  for  some  moments,  she 
looked  up  with  indescribable  sweetness,  and  ex- 
claimed, "  O !  what  a  vision  of  heaven  I  have 
had  !  Eternity  rolls  up  before  me  like  a  sea  of 
glory — and  so  near.  O,  that  blessed  company  of 
redeemed  sinners,  and  the  glorious  Jesus  !  what  a 
Savior !  and  he  is  mine !  O,  what  a  speck  of 
time  is  the  longest  life  to  prepare  for  that  blessed 
world."  At  another  time,  speaking  of  her  state  of 
mind  and  body,  she  said,  owing  to  debility,  she 
was  unable  to  fix  her  mind,  or  to  pray  and  praise 
as  much  as  she  wished  ;  but  she  could  lie  right  in 
the  arms  of  Jesus,  and  feel  continually  that  the 
smile  of  his  love  was  upon  her.  The  work  to 
which  she  had  devoted  her  time  and  energies,  al- 
most exclusively,  for  the  last  five  years,  and  in 
which  her  life  was  literally  worn  out,  often  occu- 


316 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS.  » 


pied  her  thoughts  up  to  the  last  hour  of  con- 
sciousness. She  remarked  to  us  at  one  time,  that 
she  had  been  thinking  how  much  was  to  be 
done  in  the  cause  of  moral  reform,  before  the  mil- 
lenium  could  come,  in  every  heart,  and  that,  if  she 
could  live  over  a  hundred  lives,  she  would  love  to 
wear  them  all  out  in  this  service.  But  her  con- 
stant admonition  to  others  was.  in  relation  to  this 
work,  and  every  other,  "  Do  what  you  do  for  Je- 
sus— in  everything  praise  Jesus."  She  felt  deeply 
and  constantly  the  importance  and  efficacy  of 
prayer.  When  inquiring  about  our  meetings,  she 
would  ask,  "  Had  they  much  prayer  ?  did  they 
pray  ui  the  spirit  /"  and  add,  "  tliere  is  your  only 
dependance." 

Said  an  attendant  who  was  with  her,  her  con- 
versation savored  so  much  of  heaven,  that  it 
seemed  a  great  privilege  to  be  near  her  all  the 
time.  When  suffering  from  paroxysms  of  pain, 
she  would  look  up  and  utter  in  a  suppressed  tone^ 
"  Blessed  Jesus  !  precious  Savior !  give  me  pa- 
tience !"  It  was  once  remarked  to  her,  after  hear- 
ing her  speak  thus,  "  But,  dear  sister,  you  have 
it."  "  I'm  afraid,"  she  replied,  "  that  I've  not 
enough — not  so  much  as  Jesus  had."  She  was 
grateful  for  every  attention,  and  often  spoke  to 
Christian  friends  who  called  of  the  kindness  of 
her  children — especially  her  ad  opted  daughter,  of 
whom  mention  has  been  made  before.    She  said 


WALI'ZS   or  USKFL'LNESS. 


317 


she  could  get  no  nurse  who  would  antkipate  her 
wants  as  did  Mary."  [It  may  interest  the  reader 
to  know,  that  since  her  death,  this  dear  child  has 
become  connected  with  the  same  church  of  which 
her  mother  was  a  member.]  She  continued  to 
present  tracts  and  papers  to  those  who  called  to 
see  her,  till  the  day  of  her  death,  accompanied 
with  a  kind  word  of  counsel  or  admonition.  Soon 
after  she  was  taken  ill,  an  impenitent  neighbor 
watched  with  her.  When  about  to  leave,  Mrs. 
Prior  took  her  hand  in  hers,  and  with  her  usual 
tenderness  of  manner,  addressed  her  in  words  to 
this  effect :  "  My  dear  friend,  you  have  yet  no  in- 
terest in  the  blessed  Savior,  and  you  can  never  be 
happy  without  his  love  dw^elling  in  your  soul. 
Your  life  will  pass  away  very  soon,  and  you  will 
come  to  the  dying  hour — and  then,  what  can  you 
do  without  Christ  ?  And  how  can  you  spend  your 
eternity  in  banishment  from  his  presence  ?  O  !  do 
not  delay  repentance  another  hour ;  give  your 
heart  to  Christ  now.  Now  is  the  accepted  time. 
This  is  my  last  warning  to  you.  Do,  my  dear 
child,  let  me  meet  you  in  heaven."  This  woman, 
though  then  in  health,  died  in  less  than  two  weeks, 
without  hope. 

At  intervals  strong  hopes  were  entertained  of 
Mrs.  Prior's  recovery ;  but  she  often  expressed 
the  conviction,  that  she  was  almost  done  with 
earth.    At  one  time,  when  she  supposed  her  dis- 
27* 


318 


AVALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


ease  threatened  a  speedy  termination,  she  sent 
for  us,  wishing  our  aid  in  committing  her  desires 
to  paper  respecting  some  business  matters  to  be 
arranged  after  her  decease.  We  fomid  her  in  a 
tranquil,  happy  frame,  and,  after  spending  a  few- 
moments  in  silent  prayer,  she  slowly  dictated  her 
wishes,  and  when  they  were  transcribed  and  read 
to  her,  lifted  her  hands  and  heart  in  thanks^iiving 
to  God,  that  he  had  permitted  her  to  live  till  this 
was  done — and  then,  while  the  tears  flowed  free- 
ly, offered  several  ejaculatory  petitions  for  her 
adopted  child,  her  beloved  son,  and  his  dear  fam- 
ily. A  fellow-laborer  in  the  same  department 
in  which  she  had  been  so  long  employed,  writes 
thus  :  "  My  last  visit  to  her  was  painfully  interest- 
ing. She  was  near  her  end,  but  calm,  and  sweet- 
ly resting  in  Jesus.  She  looked  up  with  much 
earnestness,  and  inquired  in  her  usual  kind  man- 
ner— *  My  daughter,  do  you  think  the  work  is  pro- 
gressing ?  How  do  you  get  along  in  visiting  ? 
Are  you  winning  souls  to  Christ  ?'  When  assured 
that  the  indications  of  Providence  were  favorable, 
and  that  my  own  soul  was  blessed  while  laboring 
for  others,  she  clasped  her  hands,  and  looking  up, 
exclaimed,  '  Bless  the  Lord !  bless  the  Lord !  it 
is  his  own  work,  and  he  will  give  success.'  Thus 
evincing  in  her  last  moments  her  deep  interest  in 
the  cause  of  purity.  It  was  the  love  of  Christ 
shed  abroad  in  her  heart  by  the  Holy  Ghost,  filing 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


319 


her  soul  with  disinterested  love  for  every  child  of 
man,  that  so  eminently  qualified  her  for  her  work. 
She  laid  her  all  upon  the  altar — time,  talents,  rep- 
utation, yea,  life  itself.  The  beloved  board  with 
which  she  was  connected  knew  her  worth,  and 
deeply  feel  her  loss  :  that  it  is  irreparable  is  in- 
deed  true,  except  as  Jesus  by  his  own  presence 
fills  the  void.  O !  that  her  mantle  may  fall  upon  us 
who  remain, — and  like  her,  when  the  Master 
calls  "  Come  home,"  may  we  have  nothing  to  do 
but  to  die." 

One  day,  when  speaking  of  her  funeral,  she  de- 
sired that  it  should  be  attended  from  the  house  of 
her  son,  and  that  there  should  be  no  funeral  ser- 
mon— giving  as  a  reason,  that  if  it  were  at  the 
church,  there  might  be  a  large  concourse,  and 
then,  if  there  were  a  sermon,  the  minister  might 
perhaps  speak  in  terms  of  eulogy  about  what  the 
poor  instrument  had  been,  or  done, — and  then, 
she  added,  "  if  I  were  in  heaven,  and  could  hear 
it,  how  had  I  should  feci.'''' 

During  her  illness  she  enjoyed  the  visits  of  her 
pastor  and  other  Christian  friends,  and  always, 
when  not  too  feeble,  requested  them  to  engage  in 
prayer.  When  asked  at  one  time,  if  she  had  any 
particular  request  to  offer,  she  replied,  "  Only,  that 
the  will  of  the  Lord  may  be  done."  Her  departure 
vas  so  sudden,  that  after  a  change  was  per- 
eived,  there  was  not  time  even  to  call  her  fam- 


320 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


ily.  She  had  been  very  feeble  for  seAeral  hours, 
but  was  able  to  be  raised  in  bed,  and  to  converse 
as  usual — but  the  day  previous  she  had  walked 
across  her  room  with  some  assistance.  Just  be- 
fore her  exit  her  daiighter-in-law  had  raised  her 
in  bed,  and  was  giving  her  some  refreshment, 
when  she  requested  that  her  son  might  be  called 
in.  A  messenger  was  sent ;  she  continued  speak- 
ing for  a  moment  longer,  and  desired  that  her 
family  bible  might  be  kept  for  a  little  grandson,  to 
whom  she  was  much  attached,  and,  as  if  forgetful 
of  her  own  sufferings,  referred  very  tenderly  to  the 
ill-health  of  one  of  the  family,  expressing  her 
thanks  for  their  kindness  and  care.  Being  much 
pressed  for  breath,  she  desired  her  position  chang- 
ed :  her  head  was  laid  upon  the  pillow,  and,  in  an 
instant,  she  ceased  at  once  to  speak  and  live. 
Not  a  muscle  was  moved,  or  a  feature  altered  ; 
and  it  was  sometime  before  her  friends  could  be 
convinced  that  the  spirit  had  indeed  departed. 

Thus  died  Margaret  Prior,  in  the  sixty-ninth 
year  of  her  age,  April  7th,  1842 — a  striking  illus- 
tration of  the  fulfilment  of  the  promise  made  to  the 
righteous,  "  Thou  shalt  come  to  thy  grave  in  a 
full  age,  like  as  a  shock  of  com  cometh  in  in  his 
season." 

"  Tears  befit  earth's  partings,"  and  they  soon 
flowed  freely  among  a  wide  circle  A  breach  was 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


321 


made  that  was  no  sooner  known  than  felt  through- 
out the  bounds  of  our  city. 

When  we  went  to  the  chamber  so  lately  privi- 
leged above  the  common  walks  of  life,  we  found 
the  clay  tenement  habited  for  the  tomb.  The 
countenance  was  placid,  as  if  in  a  quiet  slumber, 
every  feature  exhibited  a  sweet  heavenly  expres- 
sion, and  when  we  pressed  the  hand  so  often  held 
before,  it  seemed  to  return  the  pressure,  and  cling, 
as  if  loath  to  unloose  its  grasp.  The  hour  appoint- 
ed for  the  funeral  arrived,  and  the  people  as- 
sembled, but  her  appearance  had  continued  so 
much  more  like  sleep  than  death,  the  limbs  still 
flexible  and  the  flesh  scarce  cool,  that  physicians 
present  advised  that  the  body  should  be  kept  till 
there  were  more  certain  indications  that  life  was 
indeed  extinct.  This  was  on  Friday,  and  the 
funeral  was  accordingly  deferred  till  the  following 
Sabbath ;  and  during  the  interval  medical  advice 
was  followed  in  relation  to  the  corpse,  until  de- 
composition began  to  be  apparent. 

On  the  Sabbath,  at  the  hour  appointed,  a  much 
larger  number  convened  than  could  get  into  the 
house,  and  after  prayer,  followed  by  a  short  ad- 
dress, the  body  was  taken  to  the  spot  designed  for 
its  resting-place  till  the  morning  of  the  resurrec- 
tion. On  entering  the  cemetery  the  Methodist 
Episcopal  service,  so  appropriate  and  touchingly 
applicable,  was  read  by  her  pastor,  and  listened  to 


322 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


with  such  emotions  as  a  scene  like  this  could  not 
fail  to  inspire.  As  we  stood  by  the  open  grave 
the  sentiment  of  the  following  lines  seemed  to  us 
in  unison  with  the  feelings  of  all  present : — 

"  This  place  is  holy  ground, 
World  with  thy  cares  away  ; 
Silence  and  darkness  reign  around, 

But  soon  the  break  of  day, 
The  resurrection  morn  appears, 
To  shine  upon  this  scene  of  tears. 

«  Behold  the  bed  of  death. 
The  pale  and  lovely  clay, 
Heard  ye  the  sob  of  parting  breath  ? 

Mark'd  ye  the  eyes'  last  ray  ? 
No !  life  so  sweetly  ceased  to  be, 
%  //  lapsed  in  immortality, 

"  Bur>'  the  dead  and  weep. 

In  stillness  o'er  the  loss ; 
Bury  the  dead;  in  Christ  they  sleep, 

Who  bore  on  earth  his  cross. 
Soon  from  the  grave  their  dust  shall  rise 
In  his  own  image  to  the  skies." 

We  thought  of  the  last  prayer  offered  by  the 
compassionate  Savior  before  he  suffered,  "  I  will 
that  those  whom  thou  hast  given  me  be  with  me 
where  I  am,  that  they  may  behold  my  glory,"  and 
that  in  this  case  it  had  been  fulfilled ;  he  had 
"  come  again  to  receive  her  unto  himself" — 

*   *   "To  unveil  the  glories  of  his  lovely  face, 
And  take  the  ransomed  soul  to  rest  in  his  embrace.^ 


WALKS   OF  USEFULNESS. 


323 


In  imagination  we  followed  the  freed  spirit  in 
its  upward  flight,  and  beheld  the  blissful  greet- 
ings between  it  and  the  company  of  redeemed 
ones  who  waited  on  the  confines  of  the  heavenly 
world  to  receive  it  into  "everlasting  habitations." 
Faith  strove,  but  all  its  efforts  failed  to  paint  the 
blessedness  unfolded  to  her  immortal  vision. — 

"  O  glorious  change  I  O  blessed  abode  ! 
Now  is  she  near,  and  like  her  God." 

Instead  of  w^alking  as  formerly  amid  the  con- 
fusion and  turmoil,  the  scenes  of  guilt  and 
wretchedness  that  vexed  her  righteous  soul  from 
day  to  day,  a  crown  of  resplendent  glory  adorns 
her  brow,  and  she  walks  the  streets  of  the  New 
Jerusalem  to  go  no  more  out  for  ever.  "  Precious 
in  the  sight  of  the  Lord  is  the  death  of  his  saints.** 


TRIBUTE  OF  AFFECTION. 

*   ♦    Dear  sainted  one !  no  sculptured  stone 
Perpetuates  thy  memory  on  earth, 
But  grateful  hearts  enshrine  thy  honored  name ; 
Thy  deeds  of  love  for  earth's  afflicted  poor 
Have  raised  a  monument  of  priceless  worth, 
To  stand  till  time  and  death  shall  be  no  more. 

Yes,  thou  didst  "  toil  for  other  worlds  than  this;" 
Thou  didst  not  go  to  India's  sultry  clime, 
To  point  the  dying  to  the  path  of  peace, 


324 


WALKS  OF  USEFULNESS. 


To  lay  thy  dust  upon  a  heathen  soil, 
Cheered  in  the  god- like  work  by  man's  applause 
Thy  mission  was  at  home,  of  humble  birth, 
Receiving  aid  from  few,  and  scorned  by  most. 

But  thou  didst  walk  with  God  the  walk  of  faith. 
Thou  hadst  his  smile,  the  succor  of  his  arm. 
Unlearned  and  feeble,  and  "  of  none  account," 
Leaning  on  him  thou  didst  "  confound  the  wise." 
Strong  in  his  strength,  in  peril's  fearful  hour, 
If  duty  called,  no  fear  deterred  thy  steps. 
Faith  nerved  thy  heart  to  face  a  frowning  world. 

The  sneer  that  curled  the  lip  thon  heeded  not 
Save  that  a  tear  of  pity  sometimes  dropped. 
And  then  the  tide  of  love,  strong  deathless  love, 
Rose  high  within  : — and  thou  didst  still  endure 
As  seeing  Him,  who  is  unseen,  but  near. 
His  grace  sustained  thee,  and  his  promise  soothed 
*Twas  grace  alone  inspired  thy  dying  wish. 
That  "  5eZ/ might  be  abased— C/im<  all  in  all 
'Twas  grace  alone  that  made  thee  what  thou  wert. 
To  grace  alone  our  souls  would  give  the  praise. 


THE  END. 


